Postdoc in Real-time Digital Twin Platform for Drone Training and Mission Planning (2025-224-06263)

Postdoc in Real-time Digital Twin Platform for Drone Training and Mission Planning (2025-224-06263)

At the Technical Faculty of IT and Design, Department of Electronic Systems, a position as postdoc in Real-time Digital Twin Platform for Drone Training and Mission Planning is open for appointment from April 1, 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is available for 36 months. In electronic engineering, Aalborg University is known worldwide for its high academic quality and societal impact. The Department of Electronic Systems employs more than 200 people, of which about 90 are PhD students, and about 40 % of all employees are internationals. In total, it has more than 600 students in its BSc and MSc programs, which are based on AAU's problem-based learning model. The department leverages its unique research infrastructure and lab facilities to conduct world-leading fundamental and applied research within communication, networks, control systems, AI, sound, cyber security, and robotics. The department plays an active role in transferring inventions and results into applications in close collaboration with industrial partners worldwide. You can read more about the department at www.es.aau.dk.

Jobbeskrivelse
We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoc candidate to join our research project focused on the development of a real-time digital twin platform for training and mission simulation involving drone operations. The platform should be able to assist in technology assessment and enabling rapid evaluation and skill development of operators before deployment in the field. The research will focus on designing and implementing a sophisticated digital twin environment that is realistic, adaptive, and robust to dynamic battlefield conditions. This platform will not only simulate single drone operations but also support coordinated missions involving groups of drones.

The Postdoc will focus on the following key research objectives:

• Digital Twin Platform Development: Create a dynamic and real-time digital twin platform for both training and mission simulation.
• Modelling and Simulation: Develop first-principles models for generic aircraft(fixed-wing and multirotor drones), grey-box models for sensors and environmental factors, and implement dynamic time-discretization techniques for real-time simulation.
• Machine Learning Integration: Incorporate machine learning algorithms to enhance adaptability and robustness in diverse battlefield environments.
• Operational Environment Simulation: Ensure the platform is realistic for effective training while being diverse and adaptive to accommodate various mission parameters.

Moreover, the Postdoc will have the following key responsibilities:

• Conduct cutting-edge research on mathematical modelling and simulation, and AI techniques for real-time digital twin systems.
• Develop and validate models for aircraft, sensors, and environmental conditions.
• Implement dynamic simulation frameworks for training and mission planning.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure platform scalability and robustness.
• Publish high-quality research papers in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at international conferences.

To be able to lift the above-mentioned objectives and responsibilities the Postdoc should have the following qualifications:

Necessary qualifications:

• A PhD degree(or equivalent) in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or a related field.
• Strong background in mathematical modelling, dynamic systems, and simulation.
• Experience in machine learning and AI algorithms.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Julia or MATLAB, and object-oriented programming languages such as Java or C++.
• Knowledge of drone systems and control theories is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with real-time system simulations.
• Knowledge of first principles and grey-box modelling approaches.
• Familiarity with mission planning and operational training environments.
• Interest in defence and military technology applications.

What We Offer:

• A fully funded 3-year Postdoc position with a competitive salary and research budget
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and simulation tools.
• Opportunities to collaborate with leading experts in digital twin technologies and drone systems.
• Support for attending international conferences and workshops.
• A dynamic and inclusive research environment.´

The postdoc will be affiliated with the research group Nonlinear and Optimal Control Lab. The group aims to develop and apply nonlinear and optimal control methods within all engineering aspects. Special focus is on control methods with potential real-world applications and questions related to feasibility and practical implementation.

You may obtain further professional information from Section Head John-Josef Leth, email: [email protected].

Qualification requirements
Appointment as Postdoc presupposes scientific qualifications at PhD–level or similar scientific qualifications. The research potential of each applicant will be emphasized in the overall assessment. Appointment as a Postdoc cannot exceed a period of four years in total at Aalborg University.

The application must contain the following:

• A motivated text wherein the reasons for applying, qualifications in relation to the position, and intentions and visions for the position are stated.

• A current curriculum vitae.

• Copies of relevant diplomas(Master of Science and PhD- both in english).

• Scientific qualifications. A complete list of publications must be attached with an indication of the works the applicant wishes to be considered. You may attach up to 5 publications.

• Dissemination qualifications, including participation on committees or boards, participation in organisations and the like.

• Additional qualifications in relation to the position. References/recommendations.

• Personal data.

The applications are only to be submitted online by using the"Apply online" button below.

Assessment
The assessment of candidates for the position will be carried out by qualified experts.

Shortlisting will be applied. This means that after the application deadline, the head of the department, with the assistance of the hiring committee, will select the applicants to be assessed. All applicants will be informed whether they have been shortlisted for assessment or not.

When the hiring process is completed, a final rejection will be sent to the applicants who are not considered for the position.

Contact information
For further information concerning the application procedure please contact by mail [email protected]. Information regarding guidelines, ministerial circular in force and procedures can be seenhere.

AAU wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background or belief.

The hiring process at Aalborg University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires, ensuring the safety, compliance, and integrity of the workplace.

Løn og ansættelsesvilkår
The employment is in accordance with the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities(the Appointment Order) and the Ministerial Order on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities. Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state(AC collective agreement)(only in Danish) and circular concerning protocol on certain terms of employment of academic staff at universities(only in Danish).

Ansøgningsfrist
2025-03-11

Ref. nummer
2025-224-06263

Afdeling
Department of Electronic Systems