Robotics and Autonomous Systems PhD

University of Surrey

Robotics is a multidisciplinary branch of engineering and science that deals with the design, construction, operation and use of robots, as well as computer systems for their control, sensory feedback and information processing. On our Robotics and Autonomous Systems PhD, you’ll study, design and build novel solutions and behaviours for robots and, in general, autonomous systems. Robots must interact with people and objects, as well as challenging real-world environments. They must simulate human perception mechanisms, shared control and natural multi-modal interfaces. Robots must also exhibit a high degree of autonomy and intelligence when performing highly complex tasks, such as condition monitoring, prognostics and health management, and long-term persistent autonomy, including validation and verification. Designing and managing robotics and autonomous systems requires diverse skills from various engineering disciplines such as electronics, mechatronics, control and signal processing, together with state-of-the-art micro and nano-sensors, embedded multi-core computing and artificial intelligence. This programme embraces all these disciplines and aims to train the next generation of innovators in the growing field of robotics and autonomous systems. In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021, the University of Surrey ranks 15th in the UK for research power for engineering and top 20 in the UK for the overall quality of research outputs (research papers and other published works).

The Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences