Design and Control of Fourth Generation Aerial Robotic Manipulators

The Mechatronics Group (M-Group) at KU Leuven Bruges Campus offers a fully funded PhD position focused on the design and control of fourth-generation aerial robotic manipulators (ARMs). This interdisciplinary research team combines expertise from Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering, and is embedded within the Robotics, Automation and Mechatronics (RAM) division. The project aims to advance hybrid platform technologies, novel manipulator arms, multi-source perception, and autonomous planning for safe and efficient aerial operation. Doctoral training is provided through the Leuven Arenberg Doctoral School, ensuring a structured and supportive environment for research and professional development. The research addresses key limitations of current third-generation ARMs, such as limited flight endurance, restricted payload capacity, dependence on human supervision, and challenges in perception within GNSS-denied or cluttered environments. The project proposes innovative solutions including hybrid VTOL platforms, lightweight parallel/delta manipulator architectures, multi-sensor fusion for robust localization and mapping, and control-aware autonomous planning frameworks. Validation will occur in controlled lab settings and application domains such as agriculture, industrial inspection, construction, and dual-use scenarios. As a PhD candidate, you will contribute to one or more of the following research pillars: designing hybrid VTOL platforms for enhanced endurance and manipulation, developing precision manipulator architectures, integrating heterogeneous sensor modalities (IMU, stereo vision, event cameras, LiDAR), and creating reactive planning frameworks for autonomous operation. The position offers access to state-of-the-art lab infrastructure, including a drone cage, motion capture system, and onboard computing units, as well as opportunities for collaboration with international research partners and industry stakeholders. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field (Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronic Engineering, Robotics, Control, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering) and demonstrate above-average academic performance. Experience with aerial robotics, robot kinematics and dynamics, control systems, sensor fusion, machine learning for robotics, or motion planning is desirable. Skills in ROS, MATLAB/Simulink, embedded hardware, Python/C++, simulation environments, and hardware-in-the-loop testing are advantageous. Proficiency in English is required, and proof of language proficiency should be provided if available. The PhD scholarship is fully funded for four years, with a competitive remuneration package and strong support for scientific and industrial development. Candidates will benefit from a dynamic, interdisciplinary team, active participation in international conferences (ICRA, IROS, ICUAS), and opportunities for research stays abroad. KU Leuven is ranked among the top 100 universities globally and offers a high quality of life and excellent healthcare in Belgium. To apply, use the online application tool and submit a single PDF containing your motivation letter, academic CV, list of publications (if any), copies of diplomas, transcripts, English summary of Master thesis, proof of English proficiency, and a reference letter or referee contact details. For further information, contact Prof. Jolan Wauters at [email protected]. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, welcoming candidates from all backgrounds.