Torleiv H. Bryne
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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
Available
Deadline
Nov 20, 2026
Country
Norway
University
Norwegian University of Science and Technology
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About this position
This PhD project at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology focuses on counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) for protecting civilian critical infrastructure from drone threats. The research is situated in the Department of Engineering Cybernetics and connected to the UAV-lab at NTNU, an established environment with long experience in drone autonomy and beyond-line-of-sight operations.
The student will contribute to the project “Managing drone threats to critical infrastructure”, one of four PhD positions within a larger NTNU effort on resilience. The work addresses detection, tracking, mitigation, and interception of drones in complex operating environments shaped by harsh climate and challenging geography. The project is explicitly tied to Norwegian needs and to critical infrastructure contexts such as railroads, bridges, airports, power systems, harbours, and water supplies.
The research combines theory, simulation, and practical implementation. Depending on the candidate’s background and interests, the PhD may involve work on drone detection systems, interceptor drones, advanced sensors, data communication systems, and artificial intelligence. The position also involves collaboration with an interdisciplinary team of PhD candidates and researchers across multiple faculties, as well as UAV operators at the lab.
The supervision contact named in the advert is Associate Professor Torleiv H. Bryne. The position is embedded in NTNU’s broader technical-scientific environment in Trondheim, with the department contributing to automation, digitalization, and robotization in close cooperation with industry and academia. The role is framed as a full-time doctoral position with academic publication, dissemination, conference participation, and possible teaching-related duties as part of the project.
The project is intended to develop and test solutions for a more resilient society by addressing evolving drone threats to critical infrastructure.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must have a relevant Master's degree in control engineering, cybernetics, aerospace engineering, electronic systems, mechatronics, or equivalent, with a study load corresponding to a five-year Norwegian degree and 120 credits at master's level. Master students may apply if the degree is completed and documented before starting and no later than 2027-08-27. A strong academic background is required, with an average grade equivalent to B or better on NTNU's scale, unless offset by exceptional suitability such as relevant work experience or peer-reviewed publications. Applicants must meet the faculty's doctoral admission requirements. They must have knowledge and skills in at least one core topic: guidance, navigation, control, aerial robotics/UAS systems, or sensor, detection and tracking systems. Good collaboration skills, motivation to work with both software and hardware outside simulation, and oral and written Norwegian/Scandinavian language skills at A2 level or higher are required. Preferred qualifications include broader experience in several of the core topics, wireless communication systems or relevant electric systems, practical experience with aerial drone systems, aircraft or air defence systems, and both theoretical and practical skills. Security clearance may be required, and non-EEA/non-NATO citizens should not expect to obtain one.
How to apply
Apply electronically via Jobbnorge.no. Include transcripts and diplomas for Bachelor's and Master's degrees, a CV, a relevant thesis or project report, a short motivation letter, language documentation if applicable, publications or certificates if relevant, referee contacts, and documentation for foreign education if relevant.
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Professors
Associate Professor at Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Norway
Research Interests
Artificial Intelligence
Computer Science
Tracking Systems
Guidance And Control
Wireless Communication
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.