PhD in Foil Drone

Original title: PhD Position in Foil Drone

• Advanced Multi-Body Dynamics & Control: Deepen and expand simulation models linking the aerial vehicle to the submerged hydrofoil via a flexible tether. Refine independent controllers to ensure stability during critical transitions (transit, deployment, sailing, and recovery).
• Aerodynamic & Hydrodynamic Optimization: Investigate the complex interactions of fixed wing drone, cabels, and hydrofoils. Optimize aerodynamic and hydrodynamic efficiencies across varying sea states and wind disturbances.
• Experimental Validation: Translate theoretical models into physical hardware. Collaborate with technical staff and student teams to design wind-tunnel experiments, tow-tank tests, and open-water flight trials to validate structural integrity, deployment mechanisms, and control strategies.
• Academic Contribution: Publish high-impact scientific papers in leading international journals, present findings at global aerospace and marine conferences, and assist in supervising Master's and Bachelor's student thesis projects.
• A fully funded, multi-year PhD position within a world-leading aerospace research environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art simulation tools, testing facilities, and prototyping equipment.
• Opportunities to collaborate closely with pioneers in UAV technology, maritime sensors, and renewable energy systems.
• A vibrant, international, and inspiring workplace dedicated to creating innovative drone solutions that work in the real world.
• Educational Background: Hold a Master of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Control Systems, or a closely related discipline.
• Technical Expertise: Strong background in flight dynamics, multi-body system modeling, guidance, navigation, and control (GNC).
• Simulation Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in numerical simulation environments (such as MATLAB/Simulink, Python) for aerial or underwater systems.
• Research Drive: Passion for academic research, experimental verification, and autonomous systems, with a proven ability to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Collaboration & Communication: Excellent English written and verbal communication skills, with a collaborative mindset to work alongside interdisciplinary academic and industrial partners.
• Practical Experience: Demonstrated hands-on experience in building, assembling, or maintaining (fixed-wing) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and/or marine hydrofoil systems, including composite manufacturing and mechanical integration.
• Motivational letter
• Drone license (if applicable)
• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• Applying for an exemption for specific research and educational areas is an obligatory part of the selection procedure for this vacancy. This exemption must be obtained from the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) before an employment contract is agreed upon. Click here for more information.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services