Fully Funded PhD Scholarship — Robot Skill Learning

We are inviting applications for a fully funded PhD scholarship on the topic “Robot Skill Learning.”

This project aims to pioneer the next generation of intelligent robotic systems that can learn, adapt, and collaborate with other machines and humans in modern factories.
The research will focus on developing generalised intelligence and learning techniques that enable robots to acquire, store and reuse skills in dynamic industrial settings.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research team under the supervision of Dr. Yuqian Lu and Professor Bruce MacDonald.

Candidate Requirements

We are seeking candidates who:

• Hold (or are completing) a Master’s or First-Class Honours degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline
• Have strong programming and analytical skills (e.g., Python, ROS, control systems, or machine learning frameworks)
• Are highly motivated to pursue research in intelligent robotic systems
• Possess a can-do attitude and passion for producing excellent research outputs
• Demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills to work with other research organisations and industry partners

Scholarship Details

• Funding: Covers tuition fees + annual stipend (as per University of Auckland PhD scholarship rate) for 36 months
• Start Date: As soon as possible, no later than September 2026

If you are passionate about shaping the future of intelligent, collaborative automation, we encourage you to apply.

Please send your CV, academic transcript, and a short statement of research interest to
📧 Dr. Yuqian Lu (yuqian.lu@auckland.ac.nz)
as soon as possible, but no later than 15 November 2025.

For further information about the project or research environment, please contact Dr. Yuqian Lu directly.