Intelligent Multi-scale Magnetic Robots for Endoluminal Surgical Applications

PGR-P-2460

Key facts

Type of research degree: PhD
Application deadline: Friday 31 July 2026
Project start date: Thursday 1 October 2026
Country eligibility: UK only
Funding: Funded
Source of funding: University of Leeds
Supervisors: Dr James Chandler and Professor Pietro Valdastri
Schools: School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Research groups/institutes: Institute of Robotics, Autonomous Systems and Sensing

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Summary</h2>

This PhD position is part of the IMMERSE project (Intelligent Magnetic Multi-scale Robotics for Endoluminal Surgical Excellence), an ambitious research programme aiming to develop the next generation of medical robots for minimally invasive surgery. Modern surgical robots are powerful but still struggle to reach many areas of the human body, especially through narrow and highly curved anatomical pathways. IMMERSE addresses this challenge by developing a new class of soft, flexible robots that can be guided remotely using magnetic fields, allowing them to move safely and precisely inside the body without relying on rigid instruments or complex internal mechanisms. A key innovation of the project is its multi-scale approach. Instead of relying on a single device, IMMERSE combines robots of different sizes working together: larger robots navigate through the body to reach the target area, while much smaller robots are deployed locally to deliver therapy with high precision. This coordinated system has the potential to enable entirely new treatments for diseases such as colorectal and pancreatic cancer, reducing the need for invasive surgery and improving patient outcomes. The successful candidate will join the STORM Lab (www.stormlabuk.com) at the University of Leeds and contribute to the design, control, and experimental validation of these robotic systems. Depending on their interests and background, the PhD project may involve developing new robotic devices, creating intelligent control algorithms, or testing the technology in realistic clinical scenarios. A distinctive feature of this PhD is the close collaboration with ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading institutions in medical robotics. The student will regularly travel to Zurich to work directly with project partners, gaining hands-on experience in complementary technologies such as micro-robotics and electromagnetic actuation. This international collaboration will provide a unique opportunity to work across two leading research environments, build a strong professional network, and contribute to a globally competitive research programme.

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Full description</h2>

<h3 data-end="1237" data-section-id="jij7md" data-start="1208">PROJECT DESCRIPTION</h3> This PhD position is part of the IMMERSE project (Intelligent Magnetic Multi-scale Robotics for Endoluminal Surgical Excellence), an ambitious research programme aiming to transform minimally invasive surgery through magnetically controlled robotic systems operating across multiple scales. The project addresses a fundamental limitation of current surgical robotics: the inability to effectively navigate complex anatomical pathways using rigid or cable-driven instruments. IMMERSE proposes a paradigm shift by leveraging external magnetic fields to control robots at the meso-, milli-, and micro-scale, enabling unprecedented access, dexterity, and precision inside the human body. Inspired by a “mothership-and-drones” concept, larger magnetic robots will navigate to clinical targets and deploy micro-scale agents for highly localised therapy, with applications in challenging conditions such as colorectal and pancreatic cancer. The successful candidate will join the <a href="http://www.stormlabuk.com">STORM Lab</a> at the University of Leeds, a world-leading research group in medical robotics. The PhD will contribute to one or more of the following research directions: <ul data-end="3102" data-start="2543"> <li data-end="2630" data-section-id="1qkvqwm" data-start="2543"> Design of multi-scale magnetic robotic architectures for endoluminal navigation </li> <li data-end="2705" data-section-id="1fpvfut" data-start="2631"> Development of soft magnetic continuum robots (magnetic tentacles) </li> <li data-end="2776" data-section-id="khp61z" data-start="2706"> Modelling and control of magnetically actuated robotic systems </li> <li data-end="2888" data-section-id="lqdpqo" data-start="2777"> Integration of hybrid magnetic field generation platforms (permanent magnets and electromagnetic coils) </li> <li data-end="2953" data-section-id="13z3fwk" data-start="2889"> Real-time localisation, sensing, and closed-loop control </li> <li data-end="3009" data-section-id="tjs4qz" data-start="2954"> Automation and AI-enabled navigation strategies </li> <li data-end="3102" data-section-id="1isrpr1" data-start="3010"> Experimental validation in realistic anatomical environments and pre-clinical models </li> </ul> The project is highly interdisciplinary and will involve close collaboration with leading international partners, including ETH Zurich, as well as clinical collaborators through the Leeds NIHR centres. <hr data-end="3350" data-start="3347" /> <h3 data-end="3382" data-section-id="tkv1nu" data-start="3352">RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT</h3> The PhD student will be embedded within the <a href="http://www.stormlabuk.com">STORM Lab</a>, an internationally recognised centre for innovation in robotic surgery and minimally invasive technologies. The lab offers access to state-of-the-art facilities, including robotic platforms, magnetic manipulation systems, and pre-clinical testing environments. <a href="http://www.stormlabuk.com">STORM Lab</a> has a strong track record of translating research into clinical and commercial impact, with technologies progressing from laboratory prototypes to first-in-human trials and successful spin-outs. Previous students have gone on to careers in leading organisations such as Apple, Intuitive Surgical, and cutting-edge medical robotics start-ups. <hr data-end="4100" data-start="4097" /> <h3 data-end="4125" data-section-id="1r4cj0m" data-start="4102">WHAT WE OFFER</h3> <ul data-end="4470" data-start="4126"> <li data-end="4183" data-section-id="vt57iu" data-start="4126"> Fully funded PhD scholarship (tuition fees + stipend) </li> <li data-end="4261" data-section-id="i49rdc" data-start="4184"> Access to world-class research infrastructure and clinical collaborations </li> <li data-end="4327" data-section-id="13l5n5v" data-start="4262"> Opportunities for international collaboration and secondments </li> <li data-end="4416" data-section-id="1pyr6gy" data-start="4328"> Training in both fundamental robotics and translational medical technologies </li> <li data-end="4470" data-section-id="1wm2wvl" data-start="4417"> A vibrant, multidisciplinary research environment </li> </ul> <hr data-end="4475" data-start="4472" /> <h3 data-end="4504" data-section-id="1bgpy6w" data-start="4477">CANDIDATE PROFILE</h3> We are looking for a highly motivated and creative candidate who: <ul data-end="4854" data-start="4572"> <li data-end="4641" data-section-id="1qkqyhz" data-start="4572"> Has a strong interest in robotics for healthcare applications </li> <li data-end="4701" data-section-id="g03kfj" data-start="4642"> Enjoys tackling complex, open-ended research challenges </li> <li data-end="4780" data-section-id="14m0ufa" data-start="4702"> Is comfortable working across disciplines (engineering, medicine, physics) </li> <li data-end="4854" data-section-id="1da5f6o" data-start="4781"> Demonstrates initiative, curiosity, and strong problem-solving skills </li> </ul>

<h2 class="heading">How to apply</h2>

To apply for this project you will need to make a formal application for research degree study through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University website</a>. You will need to create a login ID with a username and PIN. • For Application type please select Research Degrees – Research Postgraduate. • The admission year for this project is 2026/27 Academic Year. • You will need to select your Planned Course of Study from a drop-down menu. For this project, scroll down and select EPSRC Engineering and Physical Sciences DTP. • The project start date for this project is 1 October 2026, please use this as your Proposed Start Date of Research. • Please state clearly in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is Intelligent Multi-scale Magnetic Robots for Endoluminal Surgical Applications as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/electronic-engineering/staff/863/professor-pietro-valdastri">Professor Pietro Valdastri</a> and <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/faculty-engineering-physical-sciences/staff/576/dr-james-chandler">Dr James Chandler</a> as your proposed supervisors. Please state in the Finance section that the funding source you are applying for is EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2026/27: Chemistry. More information on how to apply is available on our website <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">here</a>. You will be required to provide a personal statement which outlines your interest in the project you are applying for, why you have chosen it and how your skills map onto the requirements of the project. Applications will be reviewed and assessed after the closing date of Friday 31 July 2026. We welcome and strongly encourage any potential applicants to contact the supervisor(s) for an informal discussion, prior to applying, and recommend submitting your application early. Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 31 July 2026: <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date including grading scheme</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul> If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements below. 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.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Entry requirements</h2>

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.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">English language requirements</h2>

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.

<h2 class="heading">Funding on offer</h2>

A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Studentship, based in the School of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant of £21,805 per year for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided. This opportunity is open to UK applicants only. All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Studentship Competition and selection is based on academic merit. Please note that there is only 1 funded place available to UK applicants only. Please note that whilst you may be successful in securing an academic offer for any project linked to this funding opportunity, this does not mean that you have been successful in securing an offer of funding. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis. Important: Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website or our <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/undergraduate-fees/doc/fee-assessment">fee assessment page</a> for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals. Eligibility Criteria <ul> <li>Applicants must be eligible to pay fees at the Home (UK) rate.</li> </ul> If you are unsure whether you are eligible for UK fees/funding, please see our <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/undergraduate-fees/doc/fee-assessment">fee assessment page</a>. Other Conditions <ul> <li>Candidates who have previously been awarded a PhD or are currently registered on a PhD are excluded from applying. Those who were previously studying for a PhD but did not complete may be considered. </li> <li>Awards must be taken up by 1st October 2026.</li> <li>Applicants must live within a reasonable distance of the University of Leeds whilst in receipt of this scholarship.</li> </ul>

<h2 class="heading">Contact details</h2>

For further information about this project, please contact Professor Pietro Valdastri by email to <a href="mailto:EMAIL@leeds.ac.uk">p.valdastri@leeds.ac.uk</a> For futher information about your application, please contact Doctoral College Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a>

<h3 class="heading heading--sm">Linked research areas</h3>