Primary supervisor: Prof. Fernando Auat Cheein

Co supervisors: TBC

Expected Start date and location

February 2027, based at Harper Adams University, Edgmond, Shropshire, UK.

Project 

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research team working at the intersection of robotics, artificial intelligence, and agriculture. The project will focus on the development and application of robotic systems with articulated arms for fruit handling, harvesting, and other farming operations. 

The successful candidate will investigate the integration of vision systems and AI techniques for perception, decision-making, and control, enabling robots to operate reliably in complex agricultural environments. The research will involve design, experimentation, and validation of robotic approaches tailored to real-world farming needs. 

Applicants

Applicants must hold a minimum of an upper second class (2:1) honours degree, or equivalent in a relevant discipline or a 2.2 alongside a relevant Master's degree with Merit, or potential for research based on alternative qualifications/experience judged acceptable by the university.

Funding

The studentship benefits from a yearly stipend, paid in monthly instalments. For 2026/7 this equates to £21,805.00 per year, with potential increases each academic year in line with UKRI. 

International applicants would need to be able to fund the difference between home and overseas fees (£16,960.00 for the 2026/7 academic year) with a proportion being paid in full before Visa documentation can be issued. Please note that due to time constraints for Visa applications, the start date must be February 2027.

Closing Date: 30 Sep 2026

Department: Research Degree Studentships