Norwegian Institute of Science and Technology
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PhD Candidate in Drone Detection and Interception Solutions Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Full-time temporary PhD Candidate employment for three years of doctoral work, with the possibility of up to one additional year of career-promotion work for a suitable candidate. Gross salary is normally from NOK 580,000 per year depending on qualifications and seniority, less a statutory 2% contribution to the State Pension Fund. Benefits include pension membership, employee benefits and working capital for the project.
Deadline
Nov 20, 2026
Country
Norway
University
Norwegian Institute of Science and Technology
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About this position
The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a full-time PhD Candidate in Drone Detection and Interception Solutions in the Department of Engineering Cybernetics in Trondheim, Norway.
The doctoral project, “Managing drone threats to critical infrastructure,” will develop and test counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) for detecting, tracking and mitigating drone threats. Research may span theory, simulation and practical testing of drone detection systems, interceptor drones and related technologies using advanced sensors, data communication systems, control engineering and artificial intelligence. The work addresses Norwegian critical infrastructure such as railways, bridges, power facilities, airports, harbours and water supplies, and will involve collaboration with the NTNU UAV-lab and an interdisciplinary team of researchers and PhD candidates.
Applicants should hold, or be completing, a relevant Master's degree in control engineering, cybernetics, aerospace engineering, electronic systems, mechatronics or an equivalent discipline. A B average or better is normally expected, together with eligibility for admission to NTNU's PhD programme in Engineering Cybernetics. Applicants must have expertise in at least one of guidance, navigation and control; aerial robotics/UAS systems; or sensor, detection and tracking systems. Experience with both software and hardware, practical drone or aircraft systems, communications or air-defence systems is advantageous.
The appointment lasts three years for doctoral work, with up to one additional year of career-promotion work possible. The normal salary starts at NOK 580,000 per year, subject to qualifications and seniority, with pension and employee benefits. Security clearance may be required because the research can involve sensitive critical-infrastructure information.
Apply electronically via Jobbnorge by 20 November 2026. Include degree transcripts and diplomas, CV, Master's thesis or relevant project report, a one-page motivation letter describing the C-UAS subsystem(s) you want to research, relevant publications or work, language documentation where applicable, and contact details for at least two referees. Questions may be directed to Associate Professor Torleiv H. Bryne at [email protected].
Funding details
Full-time temporary PhD Candidate employment for three years of doctoral work, with the possibility of up to one additional year of career-promotion work for a suitable candidate. Gross salary is normally from NOK 580,000 per year depending on qualifications and seniority, less a statutory 2% contribution to the State Pension Fund. Benefits include pension membership, employee benefits and working capital for the project.
What's required
Applicants must have a relevant Master's degree in control engineering, cybernetics, aerospace engineering, electronic systems, mechatronics or an equivalent field, corresponding to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 master's-level credits. Master's students may apply, but the degree must be completed and documented before starting and no later than 27 August 2027. Applicants should have a strong academic record, normally equivalent to a B average or better on the NTNU scale, and meet admission requirements for the Faculty's PhD programme. They must have knowledge and skills in at least one of guidance, navigation and control; aerial robotics/UAS systems; or sensor, detection and tracking systems. Motivation and ability to work with both software and hardware, collaborate across disciplines, communicate effectively, and work independently and in teams are required. Preferred qualifications include expertise in multiple listed areas, wireless communications or electrical systems, practical aerial drone, aircraft or air-defence experience, and combined theoretical and practical skills. Candidates may need Norwegian/Scandinavian language skills at A2 level or higher, and employment may require security clearance under the Norwegian Security Act; non-EEA or non-NATO candidates cannot expect clearance.
How to apply
Apply electronically through Jobbnorge.no by 20 November 2026. Submit transcripts and diplomas, CV, Master's thesis or relevant project report, a one-page motivation letter describing preferred C-UAS subsystems, language documentation where applicable, publications or other research work, and at least two referees' contact details.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.