Research direction
We want to develop the next generation of physical intelligence: robots that work alongside people by reasoning about 3D structure, motion, and the physical world, enabling them to perceive, assist, and collaborate with humans through contact-rich physical interactions.
The project will investigate how advances in human perception, together with generative models of human shape, motion, and appearance, can be used to build predictive models of human behaviour. These models will enable robots to understand and anticipate human actions, learn interaction policies, and plan safe and effective behaviour in dynamic, human-centred environments.
Who should apply
Requirements
- A degree in electrical engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, or a related field.
- A background in at least one of computer vision, robotics, machine learning, graphics, optimisation, or probability.
- Strong coding skills, solid background in mathematics and statistics.
- Intellectual curiosity and a willingness to experiment, adapt, learn from others, and collaborate effectively.
Highly valued
- Research experience with 3D human representations, generative modelling, reinforcement learning, or real robot platforms.
How to apply
The formal application should be submitted through Imperial's doctoral application process and use the following fields:
Proposed Research Topic: Human-centric Physical Intelligence
and
Proposed Research Supervisor: Iason Kokkinos.
For administrative questions about eligibility, English-language requirements, or the application portal, please use Imperial's admissions guidance.
Contact
If you plan to apply and have questions, email me at iasonas.kokkinos@gmail.com with Human-Centric Physical Intelligence in the email subject.
I will do my best to reply promptly, but I cannot guarantee a response to every enquiry.
When contacting me, it can help if you include the following:
Cover letter
Include a one-page letter explaining why you are interested in this research direction and in pursuing a PhD, summarising your relevant experience, and identifying research questions that interest you.
CV and project evidence
Include publications, if any, and previous hands-on projects with your specific contributions. Links to videos, GitHub repositories, and your MSc thesis or an extended abstract are especially helpful.
Transcripts and referees
Include undergraduate and master's transcripts, and provide the details of your referees.