Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Drone Control, AI and Flight Testing

Do you want to work as part of a dynamic team developing a high altitude sensing platform to study volcanoes as a proxy for climate engineering? Do you enjoy the challenge of connecting cutting edge research to real-world utility? The University of Bristol has the ideal opportunity in UAV's autonomy and flight optimization for you!

We are looking for a talented and motivated research associate or senior research associate in drone control and flight testing to join our ambitious high impact project around June 2025. We are open to some flexibility with the start date, so if you're available shortly before or after this, we would still love to hear from you.

This four year project involves advancing UAV-based sensing capabilities in active volcanic environments development and flight testing at volcanoes in Latin America and the Caribbean. These deployments offer a rare opportunity to gather high impact environmental data in some of the most dynamic and scientifically significant locations on earth.

The post is offered on a full time basis for up to four years, and the university offers flexible working and a very generous leave entitlement. It is anticipated that interviews will take place shortly after the advert closes. This job is part of an Advanced Research and Invention Agency project and is subject to final funding approval, and whilst applications and interviews may take place no offer of employment will be made until the funding agreement is formally secured.

What will you be doing?

• Conducting research into advanced UAV aircraft design, operational performance, real-time sensing, and dynamic onboard rerouting to enable autonomous decision making in complex environments.
• Developing UAV sensor platforms, designed to operate up to 30,000 feet above mean sea level. and participating in field testing campaigns at a range of diverse and exciting locations.

You should apply if (you have):

• A relevant doctorate or be close to completion, or equivalent professional experience in aerospace engineering robotics or a closely related field
• Hands-on experience working with drones in a lab setting with a focus on the design flight testing performance and operation of high altitude sensing UAV's
• A strong track record of research in areas such as drone path planning flight control, sensing systems or aircraft simulation, demonstrated by high quality publications and supported by substantial practical experience in real-world flight trials

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