Ultrasonic Drilling for Minimally Invasive Assessment of Inhomogeneous Damage in Degraded Concrete

University of Glasgow; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Glasgow offers an exciting PhD opportunity focusing on developing innovative robotic systems for assessing structural integrity. This project combines theoretical research and practical application, with a strong emphasis on the latest technological advancements in sensor integration and robotics. Candidates will gain hands-on experience in advanced material characterization and build a foundation for future academic or engineering careers.

Benefits

Access to world-class laboratories

Opportunities for professional development

Interdisciplinary supervisory team

Qualifications

• Experience in ultrasonic transducers and mechatronics
• Strong proficiency in MATLAB and Python coding
• Previous research project involvement is a plus

Responsibilities

• Develop a robot-integrated ultrasonic drilling system
• Conduct real-time damage assessment in concrete structures
• Integrate sensors and perform testing in harsh environments

Skills

Ultrasonic transducer modelling

Mechatronic system development

Concrete technology

Numerical modelling

Experimental testing

Coding (MATLAB, Python)

Computational tools (FEA, CAD)

Academic writing

Education

UK 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanics

Job description

Supervisory Team: Dr Xuan Li and Dr Ye Li

This project aims to develop a robot-integrated ultrasonic drilling system for minimally invasive, high-resolution assessment of inhomogeneous damage in degraded concrete. By combining ultrasonic sensing and force measurement during drilling, the system enables real-time subsurface characterization in extreme environments such as underwater or post-fire, supporting safer infrastructure inspection and maintenance.

Infrastructure exposed to harsh conditions—such as marine environments, nuclear radiation, arctic climates, or fire events—undergoes progressive and inhomogeneous degradation. Accurate assessment of internal damage is critical to ensuring structural safety, effective maintenance, and timely rehabilitation. Yet, these environments are often difficult or hazardous to access. Traditional evaluation techniques are frequently invasive, time-consuming, or lack the resolution to detect early-stage internal deterioration.

This PhD project aims to develop a robot-integrated ultrasonic drilling system for minimally invasive, real-time, and high-resolution subsurface damage assessment in concrete. The proposed system features a miniaturized ultrasonic drill embedded with force and ultrasonic sensors, capable of penetrating concrete while continuously capturing material resistance and internal structural changes. This enables real-time profiling of degradation along the depth of concrete components—even in extreme or inaccessible conditions.

The system is specifically designed for integration with robotic arms or drones, enabling autonomous inspection of submerged structures, confined spaces, or hazardous post-disaster zones where human access is limited or unsafe.

What’s in it for you?

• Work in world-class laboratories at the University of Southampton, with access to cutting-edge facilities for materials testing, embedded systems, and robotics.

• Join an interdisciplinary supervisory team across Mechanical and Civil Engineering.

• Develop expertise in drill tool development, sensor integration, signal processing, cementitious material characterization, and multi-physics modelling.

• Build highly transferable skills for careers in academia, infrastructure resilience, advanced diagnostics, or robotics-driven engineering.

Student will receive trainings on design, fabrication and characterisation of ultrasonic drill tools using engineering software. Technical training will include advanced material characterisation techniques such as micro-CT, NMR, SEM, and in-situ XRD. The student will benefit from professional development through the University of Southampton’s Doctoral College. This includes courses on academic writing, research ethics, presentation and communication skills, and public engagement. Opportunities will also be available to gain experience in teaching and supervision.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanics or a related field

1. Experience in modelling of ultrasonic transducers, mechatronic system development, concrete technology, numerical modelling, or experimental testing.

2. Proficiency in coding and computational tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, FEA, CAD).

3. Strong academic writing skills for producing high-quality research papers.

4. Prior involvement in research projects.

Closing date: 30 June 2026.Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of SouthamptonFunding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk) Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Eng & Env (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Dr Xuan Li

Applications should include:

Research Proposal

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: [e-mail]

The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.