GTA Funded PhD: World-Model-Based Intelligent Robotics for In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM)

This funded PhD position at the University of Leicester focuses on developing world-model-based and uncertainty-aware embodied AI methods for intelligent robotics, specifically targeting in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM). The project is hosted by the Department of Computer Science and is supported by a Graduate Training Assistantship (GTA), which combines research with part-time teaching responsibilities. Approximately 80% of your time will be dedicated to doctoral research, while 20% will involve teaching duties such as lab demonstrating, with training provided to enhance your teaching and professional skills. The research aims to advance autonomous robotics for future space infrastructure, addressing the limitations of current systems that rely on teleoperation or scripted behaviors. You will develop algorithms for perception, prediction, planning, and control, focusing on learning predictive world models of environment and contact dynamics. These methods will support simulation-driven planning, risk-sensitive control, and online adaptation, enabling robots to operate robustly and safely under extreme uncertainty. The project includes hands-on experimentation and validation on real robotic platforms, such as robotic arms, performing contact-rich inspection, repair, assembly, and servicing tasks in laboratory and space-analogue environments. Key responsibilities include designing rigorous experiments, implementing and evaluating algorithms on hardware and simulators, publishing in leading AI and robotics venues, and contributing to open-source and collaborative research projects. The research has broader impact potential across aerospace, nuclear, offshore, and other safety-critical domains. Applicants should have a first-class or high 2:1 degree (or international equivalent), ideally with a Master’s, in Robotics, Computer Science, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. Essential skills include strong foundations in robotics and control, experience with robotic simulation and experimentation (e.g., ROS/ROS2, Gazebo/Mujoco, or HIL systems), and proficiency in Python and/or C++. Desirable qualifications include knowledge of machine learning methods for robotics, background in space robotics or safety-critical systems, and prior research outputs. Funding is provided for 4 years, covering UK tuition fees and a combined teaching and stipend payment (£20,780 for 2025/6). International students must pay the difference between UK and overseas fees (£18,864 per year for 2025/6). The application deadline is February 21, 2026. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors to discuss their suitability before applying. For application advice and to apply, visit the University of Leicester's research degrees funded opportunities portal or email [email protected].