A2230
Leveraging Airborne and Ground-Based Drones, Canopy Modelling, Digital Twin Technology, and AI Robotics for Climate-Adaptive Vineyard Management in UK Viticulture
Prof Aladdin Ayesh (University of Aberdeen), Dr David Green (University of Aberdeen), Dr Riccardo Polvara (University of Lincoln), Dr Leonidas Rempelos (University of Lincoln).
Entry:
Cohort 3/October 2026
Interview Date:
TBC
Eligibility:
Accepting Home & International Applications
Research Opportunity
An excellent opportunity to combine Precision and Digital Viticulture integrating airborne and ground-based drones, canopy modelling, digital twinning, and AI robotics in the context of climate change for UK viticulture focusing on developing a holistic, ‘digital ecosystem’ to help optimize vineyard management, and utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance vineyard resilience, sustainability, and productivity in response to climate challenges, to test a digital twin of a vineyard supporting real-time decision-making and autonomous interventions.
Context
UK vineyards face increasing climate variability, with more frequent and unpredictable weather patterns. Precision viticulture aims to optimize vineyard inputs to adapt to climate changes using data-driven technologies. The integration of airborne and ground-based drones, canopy and climate modelling, digital twinning, and AI robotics offers a revolutionary approach for real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and autonomous management based on a digital replica of the vineyard environment.
Research Methodology
Lab-based work and fieldwork in UK vineyards (University of Aberdeen/University of Lincoln), internal and external collaborators, and industrial advisors including:
1. Data collection with Airborne/Ground-Based Drones
2. AI-Driven canopy modelling, testing of a digital twin
3. Climate Modelling/Simulation, Vineyard Scenario Testing/Optimization with a digital twin
4. Data validation, and sustainability assessment in UK vineyards
Training
On-campus, in-situ, and online training activities with supervisory/advisory team to provide background/contextual knowledge, understanding/expertise to successfully undertake the research including:
1) University Doctoral Induction Courses.
2) Specialised in-house/advisory training to gain a detailed knowledge/understanding of the tools and techniques e.g. Remote Sensing, GIS, Drones, Photogrammetry, DIP, AI/Robotics, Precision Viticulture, and drone training for image acquisition and softcopy photogrammetry and practical softcopy photogrammetry.
3) Guidance in the writing, presentation and communication of a research proposal, journal/conference papers, posters and presentations for publication and - time permitting - provision of basic training in research project and time management, and funding proposal writing and costing.