Adaptive Robot Behaviours in dynamic and outdoor settings

In controlled settings such as factories, robots are able to achieve many tasks efficiently and accurately. However, it is still a challenge to enable robots to operate in unstructured, dynamic and outdoor environments. In such settings, changes can occur that can render the skills and knowledge of the robot ineffective. Robots must therefore be able to adapt previously learned behaviours to new tasks and settings. The approach proposed to be investigated is in two steps. First, existing resource intensive algorithms will be applied to learn robust behaviours and perceptual representation for the robot to tackle complex tasks and environments. In this first step the environments will be static. Then, light weight algorithms, i.e. with fast convergence, will be explored to adapt quickly these learned behaviours and representations to face dynamic environments. The ultimate goal of this project is to enable robots to achieve complex task in outdoor settings where the conditions can change suddenly or progressively. Using mobile legged robot such as dog or hexapod robot, the Ph.D. work will focus first on testing the viability of the methods in simulation before eventually testing them on a real robotic platform.

Academic qualifications 

A first-class honours degree, or a distinction at master level, or equivalent achievements ideally in Computer Science, Robotics/Engineering. 

English language requirement 

If your first language is not English, comply with the University requirements for research degree programmes in terms of English language. 

Application process 

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the supervisor, Dr Leni Le Goff (l.legoff2@napier.ac.uk) to discuss the content of the project and the fit with their qualifications and skills before preparing an application. 

The application must include:  

Research project outline of 2 pages (list of references excluded). The outline may provide details about 

• Background and motivation, explaining the importance of the project, should be supported also by relevant literature. You can also discuss the applications you expect for the project results.
• Research questions or
• Methodology: types of data to be used, approach to data collection, and data analysis methods.
• List of references

The outline must be created solely by the applicant. Supervisors can only offer general discussions about the project idea without providing any additional support. 

• Statement no longer than 1 page describing your motivations and fit with the project.
• Recent and complete curriculum vitae. The curriculum must include a declaration regarding the English language qualifications of the candidate.
• Supporting documents will have to be submitted by successful candidates.
• Two academic references (but if you have been out of education for more than three years, you may submit one academic and one professional reference), on the form can be downloaded here.

Applications can be submitted here.

Download a copy of the project details here.