Radiological surveying
Developing a collaborative robot (cobot) radiological survey assistant to support contamination monitoring and identify accessible scanning regions on 3D objects.
Robotics · Research · Engineering
Joshua R. Bettles
Postgraduate Researcher in Robotics at The University of Manchester
Working towards safer, more capable robotic inspection in challenging environments, with a focus on radiological surveying, coverage planning and mobile manipulation.
A little about me
Engineering ideas into the real world.
Originally from Northamptonshire, I moved to Manchester in 2018 to study Mechatronic Engineering at The University of Manchester. During my industrial placement, I worked as a robotics engineer at WAAM3D, developing experience in automation, PLC development, industrial robotics, welding and additive manufacturing. I graduated with honours in 2023.
I am now a postgraduate researcher in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, working within the Centre for Robotic Autonomy in Demanding and Long-lasting Environments (CRADLE). Alongside research, I enjoy outreach and volunteering, including helping introduce robotics to Year 6–8 students across the Manchester area.
Current work
Research interests
Bringing together robot motion, 3D perception and practical inspection needs to help robots work reliably in complex spaces.
Coverage path planning
Planning collision-aware paths that maximise surface coverage while accounting for probe geometry, object shape and real-world constraints.
Mobile manipulation
Exploring planning and control approaches for mobile manipulators inspecting confined and clustered environments, including nuclear facilities.
Recognition & community
Fellowships and affiliations
RAICo Junior Fellow
Working towards an initial demonstrator system for robotic radiological surveying.
About RAICo →OECD NEA NEST
Fellowship connected with the ARTRED project at the University of Tokyo.
About the programme →Outreach & engagement
STEM Ambassador, PGR Ambassador and Dalton Champion for the Dalton Nuclear Institute.
Say hello
Contact
For research enquiries, collaboration opportunities or just to connect, feel free to get in touch.