PhD scholarship: Developing a Miniaturised End-effector for Repair in Confined Spaces (UK Atomi[...]

TN United Kingdom; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits you in a groundbreaking PhD programme focused on developing a miniaturised robotic end-effector for welding and repairing in confined spaces. This innovative project, sponsored by the UK Atomic Energy Authority, is hosted at a prestigious university and aims to push the boundaries of technology in the nuclear and fusion industries. As part of a dynamic team, you will engage in cutting-edge research and collaborate with industry leaders, contributing to the UK's advancements in fusion energy. If you are passionate about robotics and eager to make a significant impact, this is the perfect role for you.

Benefits

Tax-free EPSRC stipend

Tuition fees paid

Additional study package

Qualifications

• Strong analytical and numerical skills in precision Mechatronics systems.
• Experience with kinematic/dynamic analysis and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and test a miniaturised robotic end-effector for confined spaces.
• Collaborate with industrial partners on innovative solutions.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Numerical Skills

Development Skills

Precision Mechatronics Systems

Control Systems

Education

First or Upper Second Class Degree in Mechatronics

Degree in Robotics

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Degree in Computer Science

Tools

MATLAB

SolidWorks

Creo

ROS

OpenCV

Python

LabVIEW

C

Job description

PhD Scholarship: Developing a Miniaturised End-effector for Repair in Confined Spaces (UK Atomic Energy Authority Sponsored), Nottingham

This is a 3-year PhD programme at the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre in Manufacturing and On-Wing Technology, University of Nottingham, in partnership with the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA).

The project focuses on the design, manufacturing, and testing of a miniaturised robotic end-effector for welding and repairing in confined spaces, with applications in nuclear and fusion industries. The successful candidate will work at the Department of Mechanical, Material, and Manufacturing Engineering, Faculty of Engineering.

Key Details:

• Location: Nottingham, United Kingdom
• EU work permit required: Yes
• Funding: Tax-free EPSRC stipend (£18,622/year), tuition fees paid, and additional study package
• Application Deadline: 19.06.2025

Candidate Requirements:

• First or upper second class degree in Mechatronics, Robotics, Mechanical, Computer Science, or related fields
• Strong analytical, numerical, and development skills in precision Mechatronics systems and algorithms
• Experience with kinematic/dynamic analysis, control systems, hardware-in-the-loop, and relevant software packages (e.g., MATLAB, SolidWorks/Creo, ROS, OpenCV, Python, LabVIEW, C)
• Self-motivated with excellent communication skills and industry experience (advantageous)

Additional Information:

Applicants will collaborate with industrial partners and work on innovative solutions for challenging environments, contributing to UK’s leadership in fusion energy and nuclear technology. For more information, contact Dr. Abdelkhalick Mohammad.