Jacobs and University of Manchester Spearhead Global Research Centre for Robotics and Autonomous Systems
In a collaborative effort, Jacobs and the University of Manchester have announced the establishment of the Centre for Robotic Autonomy in Demanding and Long-lasting Environments (CRADLE). This international research centre will focus on developing cutting-edge robotics and autonomous systems that will play a crucial role in addressing climate-related challenges.
CRADLE's research will encompass industries that operate in demanding and heavily regulated sectors such as space exploration, nuclear decommissioning, energy generation, and urban infrastructure. With a total funding of $11 million (approximately £8.6 million) over five years, the centre is co-funded by Jacobs, the University of Manchester, and the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) through its Prosperity Partnerships program, aimed at fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
Karen Wiemelt, Jacobs' Senior Vice President for Energy, Security & Technology, expressed the significance of securing the Prosperity Partnerships grant, stating, "Securing this prestigious Prosperity Partnerships grant allows Jacobs and the University of Manchester to research the autonomous systems that industry needs to solve today's challenges and create a more connected and sustainable world." She further highlighted Jacobs' existing expertise in robotics within the energy and space sectors and emphasized the collaboration's potential to develop advanced technologies for achieving net-zero targets.
Jacobs, investing $4.6 million (approximately £3.6 million), will have the opportunity to commercialize the technologies developed at CRADLE, enabling them to have a transformative impact on clients in various sectors including urban infrastructure, energy generation, nuclear power, decommissioning, and space exploration. Reliable and robust autonomous robotics play a critical role in efficient asset management and operations in these industries.
The establishment of CRADLE will further enhance the relationship between the University of Manchester's Manchester Centre for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Jacobs, one of the leading organizations involved in applied robotics. Professor Barry Lennox, Centre Co-director, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, "CRADLE will allow the university's recently established Manchester Centre for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to build a relationship with one of the leading organizations involved in applied robotics, helping us to progress our fundamental research in this area and to deliver impact from the robotic and AI systems that we are developing."
CRADLE's research scope encompasses mechatronics, software development, and the study of community and regulatory engagement with future robotic systems. Jacobs will support 12 PhD students who will conduct research and perform prototype demonstrations both at the University of Manchester and at Jacobs' laboratories in Warrington, fostering a collaborative environment for innovation and practical implementation.
