Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Drone Design, Systems, and Flight Testing

The role

Do you want to be part of a dynamic team developing a high-altitude sensing platform to study volcanoes as a proxy for climate engineering?

Are you excited by the challenge of connecting cutting-edge research with real-world impact?

If so, we have an ideal opportunity for you in UAVs, autonomy, flight optimisation, and sensing.

We’re looking for a talented and motivated Research Associate or Senior Research Associate in Drone Design, Systems, and Flight Testing to join an ambitious, high-impact project. This is a rare chance to contribute to world-leading aerospace research whilst designing, building, and testing advanced uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) both in the lab and in the field. You'll play a key role in shaping next-generation drone technologies with direct applications in global operations.

The level of the role offered will depend on the skills, experience, and qualifications you bring to the project.

We are looking for an ideal candidate to join our team around June, as this aligns with the start of the project. We are open to some flexibility with the start date, so if you’re available shortly before or after, we’d still love to hear from you.

The post is offered on a full-time basis for up to 4 years (April 2029), and the university offers flexible working and a very generous leave entitlement. It is anticipated that interviews will take place in shortly after the advert closes. Please note that this position is subject to funding, and while applications and interviews may take place, no offer of employment will be made until the funding is formally secured. In addition, this job is part of an Advanced Research + Invention Agency-funded project, subject to contract negotiations.

What will you be doing?

• Over the course of this four-year project, the University of Bristol Flight Lab will be developing UAV sensing platforms, designed to operated up to 30,000ft AMSL.
• Lead cutting-edge research into aircraft design, operations, performance, real-time sensing, and onboard re-routing—shaping the future of aerospace technology.
• Engage in exciting flight testing at selected international locations, including Llanbedr Airfield in Wales, Montserrat, Guatemala, and Chile—taking your work to the skies in some of the most dynamic environments.
• We are seeking exceptional aerospace engineers with hands-on experience in building and operating high-performance UAS/drones, especially in challenging and diverse conditions.

You should apply if:

• You have a relevant doctorate, or be close to completing one, or have equivalent experience. Successful candidates will need experience of working with drones within the lab environment. The focus of this role is on the design, flight testing, performance and operations of high-altitude sensing drones.
• You have a research track record in drone/UAV design, reinforcement learning, control, sensing and/or aircraft simulation, evidenced by publications and enriched with significant experience of practical implementation for flight trials.
• You want to be part of a dynamic, agile team working on sensing platforms for field deployment

For a full view of what’s required at the Research Associate and Senior Research Associate level, please refer to the job description.

Additional information

For informal enquiries, please contact:

Professor Tom Richardson - thomas.richardson@bristol.ac.uk.

Contract type: Open Ended with Fixed Funding until April 2029

Work pattern: Monday - Friday, 35 hours per week

The grade of the role offered will be determined based on the skills, qualifications, and experience you bring to the position

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