PhD Studentship: The Physics of Learning in Robotic Metamaterials

Overview

The School of Engineering at the University of Birmingham invites applications for a PhD on the physics of learning in robotic metamaterials, working at the intersection of metamaterials, soft matter physics and robotics. The position covers active mechanical metamaterials and distributed robotic systems, combining table-top experiments with theoretical modelling, and focuses on self-learning active mechanical networks while being tailored to the student's interests and expertise.

Many simple organisms, from starfish to bacteria, function without a brain, spreading actuation, feedback and computation through soft bodies. Robotic metamaterials, mechanical networks made of many sensors and actuators that communicate locally to achieve collective function, could enable bioinspired robots that work without central control, survive massive damage and adapt to changing environments. The student will lead research into robotic metamaterials that adapt their dynamics to an environment after deployment, develop and apply decentralised learning techniques to networks of active mechanical units, capture their nonlinear dynamics with theory and simulation, and design and run table-top robotic experiments in unpredictable environments.

Requirements

The PhD suits a curiosity-driven scientist with a background in physics, engineering, applied mathematics or a related discipline, such as a physicist interested in robotics, a mechanical engineer interested in bioinspired materials, or a computer scientist or mathematician interested in nonlinear dynamics and optimisation. An excellent MSc, MPhys or MEng degree or equivalent is expected.

What you get

Funding currently covers Home UK students, with fees paid and a stipend at UKRI rates, currently 21,805 pounds per year, for 42 months. Strong international candidates can look at the university's international scholarships and should contact the supervisor if they have a viable plan for international funding.

How to apply

Applicants apply through the university's mechanical engineering PhD portal, giving the title of the position and the main supervisor, Jack Binysh. The application includes a cover letter on motivation and qualifications, a CV with contact details for two referees and a degree transcript. The aim is a start in early 2027.

Key dates

The closing date is 6 January 2027.