Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in Manufacturing, The University of Nottingham

Applications are invited to undertake a 3 ½ year PhD programme in partnership with industry to address key challenges in on-platform manufacturing engineering. The successful candidate will be based at the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in Manufacturing Technology at The University of Nottingham. Having state-of-the-art purpose built facilities, the UTC offers a world-class environment for the realisation of high impact research projects.

This project is in relation to the technical needs of Rolls-Royce to develop automatic and hybrid tooling solutions to enable in-situ/on-wing repair and maintenance of gas turbine engines. In recent years, Rolls-Royce UTC at University of Nottingham has developed a unique activity of developing miniature machine tools (Free-leg hexapod) and continuum (snake arm) robots capable to perform complex multi-axis machining operations in-situ large/intricate installations of high-value industries (nuclear, aerospace, offshore).

This project builds on these research/industrial successes and proposes design/control solutions for automated robotic systems capable to be teleoperated using smart human-machine interface devices.

This is an exciting PhD project that has a unique combination of academic and industrial challenges which will enhance the student’s ability to tackle complex intellectual and practical aspects of mechatronics/mechanical and manufacturing engineering.

We are seeking talented candidates with:

• First or upper second class degree in mechatronics/robotics/cybernetics/mechanical/manufacturing or related scientific discipline.
• First rate analytical and numerical skills, with a well rounded academic background.
• Demonstrated ability to develop mechatronics/precision mechanical devices
• Ability to develop kinematic and/or dynamic analysis of mechanical/robotic systems
• Ability to simulate of complex mechatronics and to use finite element modelling
• Ability to implement control and kinematics with hardware - in- the – loop
• Background with relevant packages, e.g. Matlab, C++, LabView
• A driven, professional and self-dependent work attitude is essential for the successful candidate
• Experience of working within industry will be an advantage
• The ability to produce high quality presentations and written reports

This is an excellent opportunity to work on an novel robotic system with strong links to industrial applications and key kills and knowledge in preparation for a high-impact, high-technology research  or industrial career.

The scholarship on offer (to eligible students) comprises a tax-free stipend of £13726 a year, tuition fees paid and a generous study package (e.g. research consumables, travel budget and industrial training when appropriate).

• A generous fully-funded 3.5 year doctorate programme, that integrates an industry based doctoral research project with research training in technical subjects and interdisciplinary skills.
• Supervision from international leaders in robotics for in-situ processing technologies.

Eligibility: Only UK Higher Education “Home Fee” status applicants and EU residents satisfying the three-year residency requirement are eligible.

Position open until filled

Please contact the UTC director for further information. UTC director: Prof. Dragos Axinte

Email: dragos.axinte<στο>nottingham.ac.uk