CariSurg Summer Surgical Robotics Research Program
This 8-week program brings together the brightest minds from the University of the West Indies (UWI) to work on groundbreaking research in surgical robotics, AI, and healthcare innovation. Hosted by the STORM Lab at the University of Leeds.
- Fully Funded Opportunity: Includes a stipend to cover travel, accommodation, and living expenses.
- Immersive 8-Week Research Experience: Conduct cutting-edge research at the University of Leeds from 28 June to 16 August 2025.
- Extra-curricular Activities: Participate in professional development and social events alongside scholars from around the globe.
To apply, you must:
- Be currently enrolled in a STEM-related undergraduate program at the University of the West Indies (UWI).
- Have a strong academic record and a demonstrated passion for research and innovation.
- Be available to travel to the UK and participate fully in the program from 28 June to 16 August 2025.
Available Research Projects
We are offering three exciting research projects for summer 2025. Applicants must review the descriptions below and select their preferred project during the application process:
Project 1: Magnetic Vine Robots for Minimally Invasive Surgery
Design and test highly miniaturized "vine robots" that grow and move like natural plant vines to navigate deep into the human body for procedures such as biopsies and cancer treatment. Work involves CAD design, 3D printing, Arduino programming, and pre-clinical testing.
Recommended Background:
Mechanical, Electrical or Biomedical Engineering
Project 2: Optical Flow and Keypoint Tracking for Surgical Applications
Implement and evaluate cutting-edge optical flow and keypoint tracking methods to improve automation and skill assessment in surgical robotics. The project aims to address challenges in robotic minimally invasive surgery, particularly in resource-limited settings like the Caribbean. Involves the use of the da Vinci robot.
Recommended Background:
Computer Science, Data Science or AI/Machine Learning
Project 3: Cost-Effective Gastroscope for Cancer Screening
Combine soft robotics and continuum robotic principles to develop an affordable gastroscope for cancer screening. Work includes designing and testing innovative robotic approaches to improve the diagnostic ability and usability of this novel life-saving diagnostic tool called the Bellowscope.
Recommended Background:
Mechanical, Electrical or Biomedical Engineering
Our Academic Team
As a participant in this program, you will be guided by at least two expert academic staff and student members from the University of Leeds, tailored to your chosen project. Our supervisors are leaders in surgical robotics, AI, and biomedical engineering, providing you with cutting-edge insights and mentorship throughout your research journey.
University of Leeds
Professor Pietro Valdastri
Professor in Robotics And Autonomous Systems
Director of STORM LAB UK
Nikita Greenidge
Ph.D Student in Surgical Robotics
Founder and Project 1 Co-supervisor
Dr. James Chandler
Lecturer in Surgical Robotics
Project 3 Lead Supervisor
Junlei Hu
Ph.D Student in Surgical Robotics
Project 2 Co-supervisor
Joshua Davy
Ph.D Student in Surgical Robotics
Project 1 Co-supervisor
Andrea Yanez Trujillo
Ph.D Student in Surgical Robotics
Project 3 Co-supervisor
Gerardo Loza
Ph.D Student in Surgical Robotics
Project 2 Co-supervisor
University of the West Indies
Dr. Carl Beckford
Lecturer in Computing
Mona Campus
Sasha-Gay Wright
Head of Program, Biomedical Engineering
Mona Campus
Dr. Sean Miller
Assistant Lecturer in Computing
Mona Campus
Want to support this program? Email us at info@carisurg.com
Partners
FAQs
UWI undergraduate students with a background in engineering, computer science, medicine, or related fields are welcome to apply.
Only UWI students are eligible for funding however we encourage anyone interested to apply as we will be running an online component to get as many people involved as possible! Please get in touch with us so that we can see how we can get you involved.
The program will be hosted at the STORM Lab at the University of Leeds in the UK.
No, and successful applicants will receive a stipend to cover living expenses and return travel to Leeds.
The program runs for 8 weeks during the summer. Saturday 28 June - Saturday 16 August 2025
Please fill out the application form here. Application Form
Absolutely! You'll collaborate with leading researchers and industry professionals while building lasting connections with peers.
Email: info@carisurg.com