Robotic surgery is at the forefront of medical innovation, yet current systems largely function as passive tools that mirror the motions of a teleoperating surgeon. This PhD project aims to revolutionise surgical robotics by introducing advanced automation into surgical procedures. By enabling robots to autonomously perform laborious and repetitive tasks, we aim to significantly reduce the cognitive load and fatigue experienced by surgeons. This will allow them to concentrate on the most complex and critical aspects of surgery, enhancing overall surgical efficiency and patient outcomes.

A key focus of this project is enhancing intraoperative ultrasound scanning. Currently, surgeons rely on memorising preoperative MRI and CT scans and use intraoperative ultrasound to confirm their assessments. They often hold the ultrasound probe in one hand while performing simple surgical tasks with the other. However, this practice limits their effectiveness, as it divides their attention and restricts their ability to perform more complex procedures which require two hands. Our goal is to develop a robotic system capable of overcoming this limitation by autonomously scanning and identifying the locations and geometries of tumours and registering findings to real-time surgical images to provide an up-to-date understanding of tumour locations even when tissues move or deform during surgery. We will validate the approach on cadaveric and live porcine models to ensure feasibility and effectiveness.

As a PhD candidate on this project, you will have the unique opportunity to work with our state-of-the-art da Vinci Research Kit—an ex-clinical surgical robot that we have customised for advanced control and research purposes. You will join the Robotic Surgery group within the STORM Lab, a multidisciplinary team of engineers, computer scientists, and medical professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of surgical robotics. This project not only offers the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research but also to make a tangible impact on the future of surgical practice.