Hidden Electronic Device Detection for Enhanced Digital Forensic Capability
Loughborough UniversityLoughborough, United Kingdom
Course overview
The rise in digital crime means that almost every modern investigation now involves the recovery of electronic evidence. From hidden mobile phones to concealed storage devices, locating and retrieving these items can be critical to criminal investigations, yet current methods rely heavily on time-consuming manual searches. This PhD project will explore innovative approaches for detecting hidden electronic devices using robotic and autonomous ground vehicles.
You will investigate advanced sensing technologies and autonomous navigation strategies capable of identifying devices even in complex or obstructed environments, without causing damage to potential evidence. Working within a multidisciplinary environment, you will have access to cutting-edge robotics and digital forensics expertise, as well as opportunities for collaboration with academic and law enforcement partners. The project offers the chance to make a genuine impact on real-world forensic capability while developing highly sought-after skills in robotics, AI, and digital systems engineering.
If you are passionate about applying advanced engineering and autonomous technologies to tackle pressing societal challenges, this project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the future of digital forensics. 94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021
Key highlights
- Research detecting hidden electronic devices using robotic ground vehicles
- Investigates advanced sensing and autonomous navigation in obstructed environments
- Non-destructive methods designed to preserve potential digital evidence
- Collaboration opportunities with academic and law enforcement partners
- Access to robotics and digital forensics expertise in multidisciplinary setting
- Develops skills in robotics, AI and digital systems engineering
Entry requirements
- Degree: 2:1 — or above
Scholarships
Alumni Bursary
10% of tuition fees which will be credited to the student’s tuition fee account.
Up to 10% of feesAlumni Discount
UK students: £1,500 tuition fee discount for one academic year. International students: £3,000 tuition fee discount for one academic year.
Care Leaver's Scholarship
Excellence Scholarships
UK students: £3,000 off tuition fees; International students: £6,000 off tuition fees which will be credited to the student’s tuition fee account.
International Sports Student Postgraduate Bursary
Our International Sports Student Postgraduate Bursary offers a £12,000 tuition fee discount (set against the tuition fees of your chosen postgraduate taught programme ONLY).
Up to £12,000London 10th Anniversary Award
£5,000 off tuition fees.
Up to £5,000Loughborough Business School Scholarship
£1,500 (UK students) and £3,000 (international students) off tuition fees which will be credited to the student’s tuition fee account.
MBA Progress with Purpose Scholarship
50% of tuition fees which will be credited to the student’s tuition fee account.
Up to 50% of feesQatari Ghanim Al-Muftah Excellence Scholarship
Careers this course leads to
- Robotics research engineer
- Digital forensics specialist
- Autonomous systems engineer
- Postdoctoral research associate
- Sensor systems engineer
- Forensic technology consultant
Cost of study
UK/Home: £5,238 | International: £29,500
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Loughborough University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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