PhD Position MSCA COFUND BEST: Autonomous Collision Avoidance Guidance for Low-Thrust Spacecraft University of Seville in Spain

PhD opportunity in autonomous spacecraft collision avoidance within the MSCA COFUND BEST programme. The project is titled “Autonomous Collision Avoidance Guidance for Low-Thrust Spacecraft: A Combined Pontryagin Principle and Learning-Based Approach” and focuses on developing a fuel-efficient, reliable, and computationally efficient guidance algorithm for satellites facing conjunction events with other spacecraft or orbital debris.

Research focus. The work combines optimal control theory, machine learning, and closed-loop control. The methodology includes deriving optimality conditions with Pontryagin’s Minimum Principle, solving the resulting two-point boundary value problem, and using Pontryagin Neural Networks to learn control strategies with reduced computational burden. A further aim is to validate the inference model, assess robustness and generalization, and analyse the stability of a model predictive control loop for real-time collision avoidance in dynamic orbital environments.

Scientific context. The project responds to the growing challenge of space debris and increasing conjunction events in LEO and GEO. It is positioned within the broader domain of Space Situational Awareness, Space Surveillance and Tracking, and Space Traffic Management, with strong relevance for autonomous operations of large satellite constellations and low-thrust spacecraft equipped with electric propulsion.

Supervision and host institutions. The PhD is jointly supervised by Professor Christophe Louembet at the University of Toulouse and Professor Julio C. Sanchez at the University of Seville. The research will be primarily carried out in Toulouse, with planned research stays at the University of Seville totalling at least one year.

Funding and contract. The position is funded through a European Marie Curie fellowship under Horizon Europe COFUND (grant agreement 101261439). The offer provides a 36-month full-time fixed-term doctoral employment contract, with an approximate net monthly salary of €2,800 before income tax and a monthly travel/mobility allowance of €350.

Eligibility highlights. Candidates must hold a master’s degree or equivalent by the deadline and must not already hold a doctorate. An M.Sc. in Aerospace/Space Engineering is required, with additional preparation in astrodynamics, optimisation, machine learning, and scientific computing strongly valued. A proficient English level (C1) is required. Marie Curie mobility rules apply: applicants must not have resided or conducted their main activity in France for more than 12 months in the 36 months preceding the deadline.

Application deadline. The submission deadline is 23 November 2026 at 12:00 PM Paris time.