Funded PhD in Digital Twin for Uncrewed Ground Vehicles at University of Exeter
The University of Exeter is offering a funded PhD position in Engineering, focusing on the development of a digital twin for adaptive and autonomous optionally crewed ground vehicles (UGVs). This research aims to advance the field of autonomous ground vehicle technology by leveraging AI-powered digital twins, neural networks, and open-source simulation tools to model complex terrain interactions, real-time sensor fusion, and adaptive safety strategies. The project is highly multidisciplinary, bridging human-machine teaming, operational training, and multi-level autonomy, and is expected to deliver significant impact across the vehicle development lifecycle.
The successful candidate will join the CFCM team at the Department of Engineering, Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, based at the Streatham Campus in Exeter, UK. The PhD is supervised by Professor Prathyush P Menon (University of Exeter) and Steve Austen (Supacat Ltd.), providing both academic and industry perspectives. The research will involve handling heterogeneous, high-frequency real-time data streams from sensors such as GNSS, IMUs, and cameras, and will focus on modeling soil-wheel dynamics, terrain adaptability, and operational risk. A key challenge is to architect a hybrid simulation environment that balances computational cost and model fidelity, ensuring safe and efficient operation of UGVs in complex, unstructured environments.
Applicants should have or be about to obtain a First Class UK Honours degree or equivalent in Engineering, Robotics, Engineering Mathematics, or Software Engineering, with a strong engineering background. English language proficiency is required for non-native speakers, and all application documents must be submitted in English. The studentship covers Home tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend of at least £20,780 for 3.5 years full-time, funded jointly by the University of Exeter and Supacat Ltd.
To apply, candidates should submit their application online, including a CV, letter of application, transcripts, and names of two referees. The application deadline is 3 April 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the University of Exeter funding page (reference 5833).
