University of Southampton
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4 days ago
PhD in Robotic Ultrasonic Drilling for Real-Time Subsurface Damage Characterisation in Degraded Concrete University of Southampton in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Competition-funded PhD project. Funding opportunities are available for UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students. Competition-based Presidential Bursaries may also cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants. Competition-based studentships typically cover UK-level tuition fees plus a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants. Funding is awarded on a rolling basi
Deadline
Sep 30, 2027
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Southampton

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About this position
PhD opportunity at the University of Southampton in robotics, ultrasonic sensing, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, and materials characterisation.
This project, Robotic ultrasonic drilling for real-time, minimally invasive subsurface damage characterisation in degraded concrete, develops a robotic ultrasonic drilling system for high-resolution assessment of internal damage in concrete exposed to harsh conditions such as marine environments, fire, radiation, and freeze-thaw cycles. The work combines a small ultrasonic drill with embedded force, temperature, and acoustic sensors, plus a mobile robotic platform for deployment in hazardous or inaccessible environments.
You will work on hardware design, robotic manipulation, positioning accuracy, tool-structure interaction, adaptive control, advanced signal processing, and data interpretation. The project also includes experimental validation and multi-physics modelling to study ultrasonic excitation, material behaviour, and damage evolution. The research is hosted by the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University of Southampton, with supervision from Dr Xuan Li and Dr Ye Li.
Funding: competition-funded PhD project. Funding opportunities include Horizon Europe fee waivers, Presidential Bursaries, and school studentships; some options may cover tuition and provide a living stipend. Funding is awarded on a rolling basis, so early application is recommended.
Eligibility: UK 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, mechanics, mechatronics, or a related field. IELTS 6.5 or equivalent is required for non-native English speakers. Desirable experience includes ultrasonic transducers, robotics/mechatronics, concrete technology, numerical modelling, experimental testing, MATLAB/Python/FEA/CAD, and academic writing.
How to apply: submit an online application for Research, 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, and search for PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175). Include the supervisor name in section 2 and upload your CV, two references, transcripts/certificates, and English language evidence if needed.
Funding details
Competition-funded PhD project. Funding opportunities are available for UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers may cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students. Competition-based Presidential Bursaries may also cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants. Competition-based studentships typically cover UK-level tuition fees plus a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants. Funding is awarded on a rolling basi
What's required
Applicants must hold a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, mechanics, mechatronics, or a related field. Essential requirements include high motivation, self-direction, proactive research ability, excellent communication and teamwork skills, and IELTS 6.5 or equivalent for non-native English speakers. Desirable experience includes ultrasonic transducer modelling, mechatronic and robotic system development, concrete technology, numerical modelling, experimental testing, coding with MATLAB/Python/FEA/CAD, strong academic writing, and prior research project experience.
How to apply
Apply online via the University of Southampton application portal. Choose Research, 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, then select full time or part time and search for programme PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175). Add the supervisor name in section 2 and upload your CV, two academic references, transcripts/certificates, and English language qualification if applicable.
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