PhD Position: Turbulence and VCA Induced Vortex Modelling for Urban Air Mobility Safety (RTG 2947 AirMetro) TUD Dresden University of Technology in Germany

TUD Dresden University of Technology, recognized as a University of Excellence, offers a dynamic and globally oriented research environment. The Research Training Group (RTG) 2947 "AirMetro – Technological & Operational Integration of Highly Automated Air Transport in Urban Areas" is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and brings together five faculties and the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) to address the technical and social challenges of Innovative Air Mobility (IAM). The interdisciplinary RTG features international collaboration with mentors from the USA, Asia, and Europe, and provides a structured PhD program focused on highly automated, networked mobility.

This PhD position, titled "Turbulence and VCA Induced Vortex Modelling as Safety Cases for Urban Air Mobility," is supervised by Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Matthias Mauder (Chair of Meteorology) and co-supervised by additional professors and an international tutor. The research centers on modeling turbulence and vortex effects as critical safety cases for urban air mobility, particularly for unmanned, highly automated VTOL-capable aircraft operating in complex urban environments. The project involves adapting generalized models to real urban conditions using field measurements (3D Doppler-LIDAR, ultrasonic anemometers), high-fidelity CFD simulations, and controlled experiments. AI-supported methods for spatiotemporal prediction of microclimatic conditions will be explored to enhance risk assessment and support safe UAV operations in dense urban airspaces.

Key objectives include developing methods to transfer turbulence and vortex models to realistic urban settings, quantifying the effects of microclimatic variability and vehicle-induced vortices on VTOL UAV operations, validating models through CFD simulations and wind-tunnel experiments, and integrating measurement data to improve model accuracy. The validated models will contribute to flight safety assessments, risk mitigation strategies, and digital twin frameworks for IAM operations.

As a PhD researcher, you will engage in independent and collaborative scientific research, participate in lectures, workshops, and summer schools, and support graduation work in the subject-specific research field. You will regularly report research progress, publish results, and maintain exchange platforms. The dissertation is expected to be completed within four years.

Applicants should possess a good or very good university degree in meteorology, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, mathematics, robotics, or a related field. Required skills include strong analytical abilities, knowledge of fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, numerical simulation methods, basic programming (Python, MATLAB), and familiarity with data analysis and visualization. Experience with CFD and/or experimental wind-tunnel measurements is desirable. Excellent English communication skills, interdisciplinary interest, and determination to complete the dissertation within three years are essential.

The RTG offers a pioneering research environment with access to the upcoming Smart Mobility Lab in Lusatia, Saxony, featuring state-of-the-art facilities for experiments. You will benefit from cross-disciplinary collaboration, targeted training in drone technology, data analytics, regulatory aspects, project management, and leadership skills. The program includes a paid three-month research stay abroad and dedicated support for fellowship applications and career development. Dresden offers a high quality of life, affordable living, and vibrant cultural opportunities.

Applications from women and candidates with disabilities are strongly encouraged. To apply, submit a detailed application (cover letter, CV, transcripts, recommendation letter, publications if applicable) by January 30, 2026, preferably via the TUD SecureMail Portal or by email to [email protected], stating job-ID “RTG 2947-T7/2”. For further questions, contact Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Matthias Mauder ([email protected]).