Swarm robotics research at the University of Adelaide is advancing across mining, construction and space sectors, with at least one PhD project focusing on bio-inspired systems that could reshape how heavy industries operate on Earth and beyond.
The university’s School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering runs an active robotics and automation research group with a stated focus on manufacturing, mining, construction and space exploration. Researcher Noune Melkoumian has been involved in work on swarm robotics for off-Earth mining applications, including a paper on autonomous bio-cooperative (ABCO) systems presented at the AusIMM. The Adelaide Rover Team, affiliated with the university’s Andy Thomas Centre for Space Resources, is also developing a bio-inspired lunar swarm robotic construction system as a PhD project.
The university hosted the 2025 Australian Rover Challenge at its Roseworthy Campus, drawing teams from four countries to test autonomous systems in analogue environments designed to mimic off-world conditions.
The timing fits a global market in motion. According to Automate.org, the global swarm robotics market is valued at around $1.11 billion in 2025 and forecast to reach $1.46 billion in the near term, growing at a compound annual rate of 31.6 per cent.
For workers in mining and construction, the practical question is what this means on the ground. Robot swarms are being developed to handle repetitive, hazardous or remote tasks, which could ease pressure on worksites where labour is short or conditions are dangerous. Whether that translates to fewer jobs or safer ones will depend on how the technology is deployed and at what pace.
Manufacturers Monthly reported on a new Adelaide swarm robotics system, though the full details of that announcement were not available at the time of publication. Blue Collar News will update this story as more information becomes available.
Frequently asked questions
What is swarm robotics?
Swarm robotics involves large numbers of relatively simple robots working together to complete tasks, taking inspiration from how insects such as ants and bees coordinate in nature.
What is the University of Adelaide researching in swarm robotics?
The university’s School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering is working on bio-inspired swarm systems for mining, construction and off-Earth applications, including a PhD project on lunar swarm robotic construction.
How big is the global swarm robotics market?
According to Automate.org, the global swarm robotics market is valued at around $1.11 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach $1.46 billion in the near term, growing at 31.6 per cent per year.
What could swarm robots mean for mining and construction workers?
Swarm robots are being designed to handle repetitive, hazardous or remote tasks. Whether they lead to fewer jobs or safer worksites will depend on how and how quickly the technology is rolled out.
Sourced from Manufacturers Monthly, University of Adelaide — School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Adelaide Rover Team, Automate.org. Original article.
