Project title: Emergence of embodied intelligence through bioelectrical learning in soft brain-body
Supervisors: Dr Yoshikatsu Hayashi (principal supervisor)
Project Overview
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.
In living organisms, the brain and body develop together through continuous sensory feedback, a principle known as embodiment. 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 materials can exhibit adaptive behaviour without living neurons (https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02704-y). Building on this discovery, the project will connect hydrogel networks to a soft robotic body, investigating whether ionic communication, rhythmic movement and sensory feedback can collectively generate adaptive behaviour.
By exploring how brain-like control and bodily 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.
Training and development
You will develop skills in hydrogel fabrication, bioelectrical measurements, soft robotics, AI and feedback control, experimental design and data analysis. Working across materials science and biomedical engineering, you will gain experience connecting physical experiments with AI (Artificial Neural Networks) platform. You will benefit from the University’s bioengineering and movement laboratory facilities and the Reading Researcher Development Programme for doctoral and transferable skills training. The project will also provide opportunities to exchange ideas with international collaborators and develop scientific communication skills through presentations and outreach.
Eligibility
- Applicants should hold, or expect to gain, at least a UK 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in physical chemistry, robotics, mechanical/electronic engineering, physics, or a closely related discipline.
- Interest in soft matter and soft robotics, control systems and interdisciplinary research is essential. Programming, experimental design/methods and data analysis experience are desirable.
- Due to the nature of the funding this studentship is open candidates who qualify for Home/UK/Republic of Ireland fees.
Funding Details
- Proposed start: 1 March 2027
- Three-year award which covers Home fees and includes a maintenance stipend of £22,905 per year.
How to apply
To apply, please click the 'Apply' button above and create your account, and use the link sent by email to start the application process. During the application process please select the PhD in Biomedical Engineering.
Important notes
- Please quote the reference ‘DRC26-154’ in the ‘Scholarships applied for’ box which appears within the Funding Section of your online application.
- If the application system prompts you to submit a research proposal, please paste in the project title and move on to the next step in the application.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is 15 January 2027.
Further Enquiries
Dr Yoshikatsu Hayashi, y.hayashi@reading.ac.uk.
Funding is confirmed only through a formal studentship award letter, separate from an offer of admission.
