This PhD position, jointly offered by KU Leuven's Mechatronics Group (M-Group) in Bruges and the Royal Military Academy in Brussels, focuses on the aerodynamic study of fixed-wing uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) using advanced boundary layer control techniques. The M-Group is renowned for its expertise in mechatronic system design, particularly in drone propulsion, structural design, and control, while the Royal Military Academy brings strong capabilities in fluid mechanics and experimental aerodynamics. The research is part of a European Defence Agency (EDA) Category B project, involving collaboration with international partners across various technical domains. The project aims to enhance the aerodynamic performance of fixed-wing drones, which are increasingly important for applications such as surveillance, logistics, maintenance, and communication. Improving aerodynamic efficiency is crucial for reducing power consumption and extending the operational range and endurance of UAS. The successful candidate will investigate boundary layer control technologies, utilizing scientific literature correlations and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses to assess and optimize aerodynamic efficiency. The position offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment bridging fundamental and applied engineering within a European defence context. Candidates will be expected to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, report research progress regularly, assist in organizing workshops and events, and engage in teaching assignments. The role requires frequent commuting between Bruges and Brussels and occasional travel within Belgium or abroad for meetings, tests, or measurements. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in Engineering Sciences or Engineering Technology, preferably with a background in Aeronautics or Fluid Mechanics, and must be proficient in English. Only candidates with the nationality of a NATO member state are eligible. Prior experience with CFD tools (such as Ansys Fluent), programming (Python or MATLAB), and academic publishing is advantageous. The position offers a competitive remuneration package for the first year, with the expectation that the candidate will apply for a FWO PhD scholarship to secure funding for the remaining three years of the typical four-year PhD trajectory. KU Leuven provides a supportive, inclusive, and international work environment, with partial remote work possible and excellent quality of life in Belgium. For further details, candidates are encouraged to consult the KU Leuven PhD information page and contact Prof. dr. Frank Buysschaert for inquiries.

This PhD position at KU Leuven’s M-Group in Bruges focuses on the conceptual design and performance study of fuel-cell-powered uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). The M-Group is a large, multidisciplinary research team specializing in mechatronic systems and energy, with a particular emphasis on sustainable hybrid propulsion for drones, including hydrogen fuel cells. UAS are increasingly important for applications such as surveillance, logistics, maintenance, and communication, especially for long-endurance missions where battery technology is insufficient. Hydrogen-based fuel cell systems offer a promising solution for sustainable, extended flight. The research will involve aircraft conceptual design and performance analysis, integrating subsystem data from project partners and developing new correlations for innovative systems. The project is part of a European Defence Agency (EDA) Category B initiative, involving collaboration with international partners across technical disciplines. The successful candidate will join a dynamic, international team and work in a modern campus in the historic city of Bruges. The position offers a competitive remuneration package for one year, with the possibility to continue for three more years through successful application for competitive funding (such as the FWO PhD scholarship). Partial remote work is possible, and the work environment values professionalism, human contact, and diversity. Candidates must hold a master’s degree in Engineering Sciences or Engineering Technology (preferably Aeronautics), be proficient in English, and have NATO member state nationality. The role requires strong communication skills, autonomy, teamwork, and willingness to travel for research activities. Experience in aircraft design, performance analysis, conference presentations, and peer-reviewed publications is preferred. Additional skills in machine learning, system optimisation, Python or MATLAB programming, and prior research experience are advantageous. The position also involves reporting research progress, organizing workshops, and possible teaching assignments. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. For further details, candidates can consult the KU Leuven PhD information page or contact the supervisors directly.