Ebtehal Turki S. Alotaibi

Ebtehal Turki S. Alotaibi (PhD 2020–2025) advanced Multi-Objective Reinforcement Learning for autonomous systems, creating adaptable decision-making frameworks for real-world robotics. She is now CEO and CTO of Pixconvey, developing autonomous mobility and delivery platforms in the UK and Saudi Arabia.

PhD start and end years	2011 - 2015

What was your PhD research about?

My PhD explored Multi-Objective Reinforcement Learning (MORL) for autonomous systems, focusing on how intelligent agents can balance conflicting goals—like efficiency, energy use, and service quality, under dynamic real-world conditions. The research introduced a learnable scalarization framework that improves adaptability and decision-making in autonomous robots.

What motivated you to undertake doctoral study?

I was inspired to pursue a PhD to advance AI technologies that make robotics more useful and accessible in everyday life. A personal experience showed me how automation can restore independence and improve quality of life, which drove my passion to bridge academic research and real-world robotics.

What was a highlight (one or several) of your time as a doctoral researcher?

Seeing my research transition from simulations to real robots was unforgettable. The highlight was deploying Pixconvey’s delivery robot at the University of Edinburgh and NHS BioQuarter—where academic work met social impact. Presenting my work internationally and mentoring junior researchers were equally rewarding.

What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?

Balancing research, entrepreneurship, and family life was challenging. I overcame it through discipline, clear milestones, and support from my supervisors and peers. Adapting to setbacks and learning to manage uncertainty became part of the journey.

What are you doing now career-wise, and how did your PhD prepare you for it?

I am now the CEO and CTO of Pixconvey, a robotics company developing autonomous mobility and delivery platforms in the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia. My PhD equipped me with critical thinking, data-driven design, and leadership skills—essential for guiding a multidisciplinary team from research to commercialization.

What’s one key skill or mindset you developed during your PhD that you still rely on today?

Resilience and problem reframing—seeing every failure as an experiment and every obstacle as data that guides improvement.

What advice would you give to someone considering a PhD in Informatics?

A PhD is a journey of persistence more than perfection. Use the freedom to explore deeply, connect your work to real-world problems, and don’t be afraid to evolve your direction as you grow.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with prospective students or the wider community?

The School of Informatics is an ecosystem where research can become innovation. My journey from student to robotics founder began here. I encourage students to blend curiosity with impact—your ideas can shape industries and lives.