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Shan Luo

2 weeks ago

PhD in Robotics, Neuroscience, and Engineering for Prosthetic Hands with Tactile Sensing at King's College London King's College London in United Kingdom

I am recruiting a fully funded PhD student in robotics, neuroscience, and engineering for prosthetic hands with tactile sensing at King's College London.

King's College London

United Kingdom

Jan 12, 2026

Keywords

Computer Science
Biomedical Engineering
Tactile Sensing
Robotics
Haptic Feedback
Machinelearning
User-centred Design
Engineering
- Neuroscience

Description

King's College London is offering a fully funded PhD studentship through the EPSRC DRIVE-Health Centre for Doctoral Training, starting October 2026. The project, supervised by Dr Shan Luo (Reader, King's College London) and Dr Nicola Bailey, focuses on developing advanced myoelectric prosthetic hands equipped with bio-inspired tactile skins to deliver intuitive haptic feedback for social touch and dexterous manipulation. Research areas include robotics, neuroscience, engineering, machine learning, and user-centred design. The project aims to address the high abandonment rate of prosthetic hands by integrating soft tactile skins capable of sensing force, slip, and texture, and fusing EMG and tactile signals for adaptive grip control. The work involves real-time sensing, efficient on-device processing (including neuromorphic methods), and translating lab prototypes into practical devices for end users. Candidates will collaborate with prosthesis users and clinicians to ensure the technology meets real-world needs. Applicants should have a strong background in engineering, robotics, computer science, neuroscience, or related fields, and be passionate about improving lives through technology. Eligibility requires a first or upper second class degree in a relevant subject, and English proficiency at IELTS Band D (overall 6.5, no subscore below 6). The opportunity is open to both UK and international students, though international applicants must arrange their own visa and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (£776/year). ATAS clearance may be required for some nationals. Funding includes full tuition coverage for 4 years, a tax-free stipend of £25,403.40 per year, and up to £20,000 for research consumables and conference attendance. Visa fees and health surcharge are not covered. Applications must be submitted by 12 January 2026 via King’s Apply, with a CV and personal statement. In the funding section, select Option 5 and enter 'EPSRC DRIVE-Health 2026'. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview in March/April 2026. For more information, visit the project page or contact the supervisors. This is an excellent opportunity to join a diverse and friendly research group at King's College London and contribute to cutting-edge research in prosthetic technology, robotics, and healthcare innovation.

Funding

Each studentship is fully funded for 4 years, covering tuition fees for both Home and International students. A tax-free stipend of £25,403.40 per year is provided, along with up to £20,000 over 4 years for research consumables and conference attendance. Visa application fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (£776/year) are not covered.

How to apply

Create an account with King’s Apply and apply to the EPSRC DRIVE-Health: Centre for Doctoral Training in Data-Driven Health MPhil/PhD (Full-time). Upload your CV and a personal statement. In the funding section, select Option 5 and enter 'EPSRC DRIVE-Health 2026'. Read the full application instructions on the Apply page.

Requirements

Applicants should possess or expect to achieve a first or upper second class degree in a relevant subject such as biosciences, computer science, mathematics, statistics, data science, chemistry, physics, engineering, robotics, or neuroscience. Candidates must demonstrate enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research in healthcare. English language proficiency at IELTS Band D (overall 6.5, no subscore below 6) is required. Open to both UK and international applicants. International students must arrange their own visa and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. ATAS clearance may be required for some nationals.

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