PhD Scholarship in Biomimetic Echolocation and Autonomous Aerial Robotics (Quadrotor Control) University of Antwerp in Belgium

The University of Antwerp invites applications for a full-time PhD scholarship in Biomimetic Echolocation and Autonomous Aerial Robotics, with a particular focus on quadrotor control. This position is hosted by the Department of Electrical and ICT Engineering Technology within the Faculty of Applied Engineering, and is part of the Cosys-Lab research group. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor Jan Steckel and Professor Walter Daems, contributing to the FWO-funded ECHO-FLIGHT project.

The ECHO-FLIGHT project leverages nearly two decades of research in 3D in-air sonar and bat echolocation to pioneer quadrotor UAV control based primarily on echolocation. Unlike previous UAV echolocation systems, this project incorporates advanced biological features such as wideband sensing and HRTF-based spatial encoding, mirroring the remarkable spatial perception of bats. By utilizing array signal processing to synthesize morphology-induced HRTFs, the project enables a flexible, high-fidelity, and scalable approach to biomimetic airborne sonar.

As a doctoral researcher, you will be responsible for integrating echolocation-driven perception into closed-loop control of quadrotor UAVs. This involves developing active sensing strategies and autonomous navigation systems that do not rely on vision, combining auditory perception models, predictive processing, and flight control. Your work will be validated through both simulation and experimental flight tests on embedded GPU platforms. You will also collaborate closely with another PhD student focused on the perception system, and contribute to teaching and research support tasks related to cyber-physical systems and applied image/data processing.

Eligibility requires a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electronics Engineering, or a closely related field, with good academic results. Candidates should possess a strong foundation in control theory, robotics, or autonomous systems, preferably with experience in UAVs or mobile robots. Additional desirable skills include embedded systems and real-time computing (especially with platforms like NVIDIA Jetson), proficiency in Python and/or C++ for robotics software development, and familiarity with state estimation, sensor fusion, or active sensing frameworks. Hands-on experience with experimental robotics, system integration, testing, and debugging on physical platforms is highly valued. English language proficiency is required.

The scholarship is offered for two years, with the possibility of renewal for another two years following a positive evaluation and continued funding. The monthly scholarship amount is determined according to university rates. Additional benefits include ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, and either a bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting. Doctoral researchers have access to a wide range of courses and educational credits through the Antwerp Doctoral School, and will work primarily at Campus Groenenborger in a dynamic and stimulating environment.

Applications must be submitted online via the University of Antwerp’s job application platform by 19 January 2026. Required documents include a motivation letter, academic CV, and a brief statement explaining how your research interests align with the project’s focus on ultrasound, robotics, and machine learning. For questions about the application process, contact [email protected]; for job-related inquiries, reach out to prof. Jan Steckel at [email protected].

The University of Antwerp is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities, and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The institution has received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award and offers a family-friendly, growth-oriented working environment.