PhD and MS Positions in Aerospace and Ocean Vehicle Guidance, Dynamics, and Control at University of North Carolina at Charlotte
The Autonomous Robots and Systems Laboratory (ARSL) at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, led by Assistant Professor Artur Wolek, is seeking motivated M.S. and Ph.D. students to join their research team. The lab is part of the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science and focuses on cutting-edge research in aerospace and ocean vehicle guidance, dynamics, control, and path planning. Key research areas include uncrewed vehicles operating in complex flow-fields, adaptive motion control, coordination for mobile sensor data collection, and trajectory optimization for aerospace and ocean vehicles.
Students in the lab will have the opportunity to work on projects involving modeling and control of vehicles in dynamic environments, spatial mapping, disturbance rejection, and the design of optimal reference paths for guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems. Applications span target tracking, cooperative navigation, and informative path planning, with a strong emphasis on robotics and autonomous systems. The lab is affiliated with the NC Battery Complexity, Autonomous Vehicle and Electrification Research Center (BATT CAVE) and the Charlotte Aviation Innovation and Research Institute (Charlotte AIR).
Dr. Wolek brings extensive experience from previous roles at Virginia Tech, the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, and the University of Maryland. His research has been supported by agencies such as the NSF, AFOSR, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The lab offers a collaborative environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant research community in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Applicants should have a strong background in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, robotics, or related fields, and possess analytical and programming skills. While specific funding details are not provided, research positions in such labs often include opportunities for research assistantships or other forms of support. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Wolek directly and review the lab website for further information on ongoing projects and application procedures.