PDRA in Embodied Intelligence and Soft Matter Robotics
Full-time, Fixed-term Contract (36 months)
Closing date for applications: 23:59 on 7th Dec 2026
Interviews will be held: 17th Dec 2026(Shortlisted candidates may be asked to give a brief research presentation)
By reference to applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. There is further information about this on UK Visas and Immigration Website UK Visas and Immigration Website.
How can intelligence emerge when a brain and body interact, rather than being designed separately?
A new Leverhulme Trust-funded project at the University of Reading, led by Dr Yoshikatsu Hayashi, will explore how intelligence could emerge from interactions between soft materials, a robotic body and its environment. Engineers usually design a robot’s controller and body separately, then connect them, i.e., brain controls body. Living organisms develop from a single cell.
As an animal grows, without 'watch maker', its nervous system and body continually influence each other to adapt to changing environments. Body movement generates sensory feedback, which shapes the neural networks controlling future actions. Through this ongoing signalling, behaviours such as crawling, walking, and a goal-oriented behaviour can emerge.
Neural communication fundamentally relies on the movement of charged particles called ions. Interestingly, ions also flow through water-rich hydrogels, where polymer networks can guide their movement. Could this provide a primitive form of electrical communication without neurons? Previous research demonstrated that electroactive gels could improve their performance in the computer game Pong through feedback, suggesting that soft matter can exhibit adaptive behaviour without living neurons.
By exploring how brain-like control and body movement might emerge together from physical matter, the research aims to uncover fundamental principles of Physical AI and inspire future generations of intelligent soft robots.
Curious about the science? Read about the fascinating 'Gel Brain' research in Nature: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02704-y
Working with Dr Yoshikatsu Hayashi, you will develop and characterise electroactive hydrogel systems, integrate them with soft robotic platforms and sensorimotor feedback, and investigate the emergence of gait and goal-directed learning. The role provides opportunities for interdisciplinary research, computational modelling, international collaboration and high-quality publications.
You will have
- A PhD (awarded or near completion) in physics, engineering, soft matter, materials science, or a closely related field.
- Research experience in at least one of nonlinear dynamics, electroactive/active soft matter, soft robotics, or machine learning.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively across disciplines.
Experience with soft matter physics, hydrogels, multi-electrode measurements, embedded control, reinforcement learning or reservoir computing is desirable, but not all are required.
Informal contact details
- Contact Name: Dr Yoshikatsu Hayashi
- Contact Job Title: Associate Professor
- Contact Email address: y.hayashi@reading.ac.uk
We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role can be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
