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Developing an AI-Embedded Robotic Multi-Sensory Characterisation and Decontamination “Toolkit”
- Supervising organisations: University of Bristol and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).
- This project is funded by the NDA PhD Bursary Scheme for 3.5 years. The studentship provides funding for tuition fees, stipend (standard UKRI rate), and a research training and support grant subject to eligibility.
- Start date: September/October 2023
Supported by NDA, this is a fully funded PhD Studentship. During the PhD, you will learn about robotics, non-destructive materials characterisation (e.g. Raman, XRF, gamma-ray spectroscopy), decontamination methodologies (e.g. laser and water-jetting) and digital twin development, as well as a wider appreciation of the skills and practices associated with radioactive materials, radiological protection and nuclear waste management.
Following successful conceptual work, alongside industrial and government collaborators, this PhD will deliver a unique characterisation ‘head’, comprising stand-off Raman, gamma-ray spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence and 3D-scanning lidar. This will be combined with co-incident decontamination methodologies, e.g., high-pressure water-jetting and laser cleaning for targeted contamination removal on a wide suite of materials such as metals, alloys, concrete, brick/stone, and asphalt. This multi-functional robotic assay and remediation ‘toolkit’ will additionally utilise machine learning to expedite localisation and contamination removal and enhance decontamination procedures by learning from ‘previous experiences’ to iteratively improve its approach. Read on for more information and how to apply.