PhD Studentship: Techno-Economic Optimisation of Robotic Inspection for Circular Offshore Energy Assets

Project Overview

• Project title: Techno-economic optimisation of robotic inspection for circular offshore energy assets
• Supervisors: Dr Dominik Winterer & Dr Sebastian Köhler
• Cohort research challenge: Long-term autonomous monitoring and maintenance of assets
• Year 1 MSc Course: MSc Cyber Security
• Year 2 – 4 PhD Location: The University of Manchester 

Abstract: Mobile robots have a unique set of design and implementation challenges. In designing these inherently complex systems decisions are made to enable operational function with limited consideration of the security challenges and risks that are introduced as a result. In order to design secure mobile robotic systems it is imperative that there is a clear understanding of the security risks inherent in their networking and communication.

This work seeks to then identify where existing best practices in the field of cyber security can be applied to the field of robotics and where there are gaps that require novel innovation. The application of security controls and architectural principles will result in the creation of secure connectivity principles that can be widely utilised across the robotics sector. Technical implementations of these controls will provide validation of the proposed architectures and control design.

With the growth of robotics across a variety of sectors and use cases, the need to provide appropriate technical advice and guidance has been highlighted by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). This work would provide direct support to the NCSC's objectives in securing emerging technologies by providing the foundational research and evidence base on the subject. 

About the RAINZ CDT

The EPSRC CDT in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence for Net Zero is a partnership between The University of Manchester, University of Glasgow and University of Oxford.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) is an essential enabling technology for the Net Zero transition in the UK’s energy sector. However, significant technological and cultural barriers are limiting its effectiveness. The CDT’s research projects will focus on how RAS can be used for the inspection, maintenance and repair of new infrastructure in renewables and nuclear, and to support the decarbonization of existing maintenance and decommissioning of assets.

Funding:

This 4-year studentship covers tuition fees at Home student rate, a tax-free stipend, and a Research Training and Support Grant. As part of TechExpert, successful Home applicants receive an additional £10,000 annual stipend enhancement.

Funding for this project is provided by The University of Manchester.

Eligibility

Applicants should hold a First or strong Upper Second-class honours degree (2:1 with 65% average), or international equivalent, in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline. Applicants should also demonstrate evidence of programming experience. Experience and background in the area of Robotics or Cyber-Physical Systems is desirable. The project is open to students who would be able to obtain security clearance.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted through the RAINZ CDT website by 15 May 2026, where further information about the CDT is also available.  Informal enquiries can be made by emailing rainz@manchester.ac.uk.

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