A Robotic Surgical Assistant: Autonomous Ultrasound Scanning of Soft Tissues in Robot-assisted Surgery

Robotic surgery is at the forefront of medical innovation, yet current systems largely function as passive tools that mirror the motions of a teleoperating surgeon. This PhD project aims to revolutionise surgical robotics by introducing advanced automation into surgical procedures. By enabling robots to autonomously perform laborious and repetitive tasks, we aim to significantly reduce the cognitive load and fatigue experienced by surgeons. This will allow them to concentrate on the most complex and critical aspects of surgery, enhancing overall surgical efficiency and patient outcomes.<br /> <br /> A key focus of this project is enhancing intraoperative ultrasound scanning. Currently, surgeons rely on memorising preoperative MRI and CT scans and use intraoperative ultrasound to confirm their assessments. They often hold the ultrasound probe in one hand while performing simple surgical tasks with the other. However, this practice limits their effectiveness, as it divides their attention and restricts their ability to perform more complex procedures which require two hands. Our goal is to develop a robotic system capable of overcoming this limitation by autonomously scanning and identifying the locations and geometries of tumours and registering findings to real-time surgical images to provide an up-to-date understanding of tumour locations even when tissues move or deform during surgery. We will validate the approach on cadaveric and live porcine models to ensure feasibility and effectiveness.<br /> <br /> As a PhD candidate on this project, you will have the unique opportunity to work with our state-of-the-art da Vinci Research Kit—an ex-clinical surgical robot that we have customised for advanced control and research purposes. You will join the Robotic Surgery group within the STORM Lab, a multidisciplinary team of engineers, computer scientists, and medical professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of surgical robotics. This project not only offers the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research but also to make a tangible impact on the future of surgical practice.<br />

<p><a href="https://www.stormlabuk.com/">STORM Lab UK</a></p> <p><a href="https://robotics.leeds.ac.uk/facilities/research-assets/da-vinci-kit/">da Vinci Research Kit (dVRK)</a><br />  </p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the University's website. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Electronic & Electrical Engineering FT</strong></em> and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>A Robotic Surgical Assistant: Autonomous Ultrasound Scanning of Soft Tissues in Robot-assisted Surgery</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/faculty-engineering-physical-sciences/staff/6971/dr-dominic-jones">Dr Dominic Jones</a> as your proposed supervisor. <em><strong>Please state in the Finance section that the funding source you are applying for is School of Electronic & Electrical Engineering Studentship 2025/26.</strong></em></p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p>Applications will be considered after the deadline.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of 31 January 2025:</p> <ul> <li>o    Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>o    Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>o    CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p>A highly competitive School of Electronic & Electrical Engineering Studentship consisting of the award of fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant (£19,237 in academic session 2024/25) per year for 3.5 years.  Training and support is also provided.<br /> This opportunity is open to all applicants.  </p> <p>You will be responsible for paying the overtime fee in full in your writing up/overtime year (£320 in Session 2024/25), but the scholarship maintenance allowance will continue to be paid for up to 6 months in the final year of award.</p> <p><strong>Important: </strong>Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not </strong></em>cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (visa, Immigration Health Surcharge, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source.</p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.<br />  </p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Dominic Jones by email to <a href="mailto:D.P.Jones@leeds.ac.uk">D.P.Jones@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>