This PhD project is in the areas of robotics and AI with the focus of networked/cloud robotics system. The student is expected to develop a new system architecture and software for future robotics systems. We also expect the student to test and validate the new design via hardware platforms (robotics system and cloud service). The student has the opportunity to work with some key industry partners via placement/internship.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.

Funding

This 3.5 year project is funded by the The Department of Computer Science, supporting both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers. The start date is October 2025.

Additional funding is available. For more information, visit our funding page or search our funding database for specific scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for. Please discuss funding options with Dr Zhao.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor, Dr Philip Zhao ( [email protected] ) for this project before you apply Please include details of your current level of study, academic background (CV) and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

For further information on English Language certificate please visit this page: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/admissions/language-requirements/

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing [email protected]

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).

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