Photonic sensors for robotics and automation

Be part of the robotics revolution by joining our PhD programme in photonic sensors. The future of robots lies in increased flexibility and performance, and to enable this better performing and lower cost sensors are required. Sponsored by a departmental scholarship this project will take an existing optical sensing technology from the laboratory to prototypes aimed at delivering new sensing capabilities for robotics and automation. You will be part of an inclusive, highly-collaborative and supportive research environment, have access to bespoke training, and the opportunity to gain in-demand technical skills, all whilst earning a (tax-free) stipend of up to £20,000 and all UK fees paid.

In many areas of robotics, manufacturing, and automation there is a desire to increase productivity by the introduction of new technologies, to enable smaller production runs, faster reconfiguration and programming to enable a greater variety of tasks, as well as improved capabilities to enable the successful application of robots in new areas. To support this new sensing capabilities are required; for example, in traditional fixed manufacturing robot arms will typically only perform a single task and can control their movements to within a repeatable 0.10mm. However, the move towards mobile robots capable of performing multiple tasks, is limited by the difficulty in controlling position to this level. In other applications such as robotic manipulation multiple biologically inspired low-cost sensors are desirable to enable new applications. 

You will be developing a prototype photonic sensor to improve the performance of robots. The sensing technology which uses a combination of optical interferometry and image processing has the potential of offering high precision positioning and tactile sensing, lower processing requirements than computer vision approaches and lower cost. You will have the opportunity take this technology in one or more different application directions such as high precision positioning, mobile robot navigation, high-speed target tracking, distributed touch sensing and/or explore the application of Artificial Intelligence to the sensors. The aim will be to develop and test prototypes tailored to these needs using our robotic test platforms.  

Cranfield University (CU) as the only wholly postgraduate university in the UK, is a unique environment in which to undertake PhD study. You will be working within and sponsored by the Centre for Engineering Photonics (EP) an internationally renowned, research-led centre in optical instrumentation focusing on novel instrumentation for challenging measurement problems across applications from aviation and manufacturing to environmental monitoring and biomedical diagnostics. We are a friendly, highly collaborative and supportive research-only centre, and as such you will be part of a wider community of researchers from all levels from PhD students to senior researchers.  

You will develop and test prototype sensors with new capabilities for applications in robotics and automation, with a view realising the technique as an enabling technology for applied robotics research challenges. This will be done both in the lab and by integrating the prototype sensors with our small robotics test facilities including a robot arm and omni-directional mobile robot platform. If successful there is also scope for collaborations within the University, or elsewhere, in the application of the sensors, and for the generation and protection of intellectual property. 

This is an ideal opportunity for those interested in continuing their career in a technical or R&D direction, to gain in-demand technical skills in optics, image processing and robotics. You will have the benefits of a modern well-equipped laboratory and the support of a highly-experienced, friendly and approachable academic team. You will also have the opportunity to present your results at conferences both internationally and within the UK and to publish your work in high-quality, international peer-reviewed journals.  

Bespoke training starts with our “Introduction to Photonics” experimental programme, designed for scientists and engineers without previous optics experience. You will also gain hands-on experience working with robots and Robot Operating System (ROS) and technical and transferrable skills both via CU’s excellent training programme that maps to the Vitae Researcher Development Framework and via practical experience gained in a research environment. PhDs in engineering offer skills and experiences that are highly sought after by employers and our PhD graduates go on to employment in the field of their choice, including industry, government labs and academia. 

Entry requirements

You will have (or expect to have) a first- or second-class UK honours degree or equivalent in physical science or engineering or related discipline. No prior experience in optics is necessary as full training will be given – indeed we welcome applicants from a wide variety of engineering and scientific disciplines. We would love to hear from you, whether you are just graduating or have some years (or even a career) in industry / employment behind you. 

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.

For further information please contact:   

How to apply

Name: Dr Tom Charrett  

Email: [email protected]?subject=PhD  

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.