PhD Studentship in Soft Robotics

Imperial College London

Applications are invited for a research studentship in the field of soft robotics, leading to the award of a PhD degree. The post is supported by a bursary and fees (at the UK student rate) provided by the Mechanical Engineering Department, and it is open to both home and overseas students.

Many surgical procedures make use of three or more tools simultaneously, requiring surgeons to work with several assistants in a constrained space and in close contact with the patient. This practice is resource intensive and demands extensive training for the clinical team to become proficient. Soft robots have light and compliant structures that are ideally suited for interacting safely with people, and are relatively inexpensive compared to traditional rigid robots.

The research involves design, modelling, model-based and data-driven control of novel soft robotic manipulators that can be produced affordably in low-resource settings. This will enable realisation of new soft robotic assistants for multi-handed surgery that can stabilise surgical tools, that can capture human intent, and that can provide haptic feedback thus helping to reduce risks for patients and learning curve for clinicians.

The work will include both practical and theoretical aspects, such as design optimisation and manufacture of prototypes, investigation of proprioceptive sensing modalities, development and implementation of dynamic models and control algorithms, and experimental validation.

One of the key objectives of the work is a fully-functional prototype comprising two soft manipulators that will be used to investigate human-robot interactions in the operating theatre (e.g., by collaboratively handling surgical tools). There is also the possibility to conduct experiments in a new immersive virtual environment.

You will join our team in the Hamlyn Centre, which focusses on developing safe, effective and accessible technologies that can reshape the future of healthcare for both developing and developed countries As a member of our team, you will receive training in fabrication of soft robotic prototypes.

You will be an enthusiastic and self-motivated person who meets the academic requirements for enrolment for the PhD degree at Imperial College London. You will have a 1st class honours degree in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, electrical engineering, or a related subject, and an enquiring and rigorous approach to research together with a strong intellect, strong mathematical skills, and disciplined work habits. A strong interest in mechatronics, robotics, and control is essential. Good team-working, observational and communication skills are essential. Prior experience in the area of soft robotics would be very beneficial.

To find out more about research at Imperial College London in this area, go to:

https://www.imperial.ac.uk/mechanical-engineering/research/

For information on how to apply, please click on the 'Apply' button above.

For further details of the post contact Dr Enrico Franco  e.franco11@imperial.ac.uk Interested applicants should send an up-to-date curriculum vitae to Dr Enrico Franco. Suitable candidates will be required to complete an electronic application form at Imperial College London in order for their qualifications to be addressed by College Registry.

Closing date: until post filled

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