Research Associate (Aerial Robotics)

The School of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (MAE) is a robust, dynamic and multi-disciplinary international research community comprising of world-class scientists and bright students. MAE prides itself in its excellent research capabilities in areas including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, biomedical, energy, industrial engineering, maritime engineering, robotics, etc. The school is equipped with state-of-the-art research infrastructure, housing a comprehensive range of cluster laboratories, test bedding facilities, research centres/institutes and corporate laboratories. Cutting-edge research in MAE addresses the immediate needs of our industries and supports the nation’s long-term development strategies. In the new era of industrial 4.0 and sustainable living, MAE is rigorous in developing new competencies to support the growth and competitiveness of our engineering sector in the global landscape. MAE has grown to be leader in Engineering Research, ranking amongst the top engineering schools in the world.

For more details, please view https://www.ntu.edu.sg/mae/research.

We are looking for a Research Associate in Aerial Robotics to support a cutting-edge project focused on designing, developing, and controlling an avian-inspired robot capable of precise and agile flight in urban environments. The role will focus on merging advanced computational modeling, AI-driven control algorithms, and innovative mechanical design to replicate the remarkable flight capabilities observed in nature. The successful candidate will be part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary team of experts in aerodynamics, robotics, and machine intelligence, working collaboratively to push the boundaries of small unmanned aerial system performance. This high-impact research aims to transform how drones navigate cluttered spaces, setting the stage for next-generation aerial platforms with wide-ranging applications in areas such as surveillance, inspection, and environmental monitoring.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support research and development related to Robot Design and Autonomous Control of an Avian-Inspired Robot

• Design and fabricate robust platform prototypes

• Develop models and algorithms (AI-based) for dynamics and control of flight.

• Support PI/Team Lead with project management activities and preparation of progress reports

Job Requirements:

• Education qualifications: MSc or MEng in Robotics, Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or related fields. Specialization in aerial robotics, bio-inspired robotics, materials, or AI-driven control is preferred.

• Soft skills: Strong communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities.

• Hard skills: Background in flight dynamics, control, robotics, AI/ML, embedded systems, and system modelling. Proficiency in Python, C++, and MATLAB/Simulink. Research publication record is preferred.

• Experience: R&D experience in designing, fabricating, testing, and refining aerial, autonomous, or bio-inspired robotic platforms.

• Competencies: Proficiency in CAD, rapid prototyping, autopilot flight control, ROS/ROS2, sensor integration, and experimental validation.

We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Hiring Institution: NTU