PhD student position in biomimetic flight

The research group of Dr. Arion Pons at the

Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences

is delighted to announce a funded PhD student position in the topic of biomimetic flight. This PhD position offers you the opportunity:

› to join an inclusive and creative research team, with interdisciplinary expertise;

› to contribute to cutting-edge development of uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) and biomimetic micro-air-vehicle (MAV) technology;

› to develop an understanding of biological flight mechanics and its role in the natural world;

› and, to cultivate an international network across different disciplines of academia and industry.

Information about the division and the department
The Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences is highly diverse, with close links to the automotive, aerospace and maritime industry in Gothenburg. Among a range of fundamental and applied research in these areas, we have a strong focus on novel and sustainable aviation technologies. You will be joining an emerging research group, led by Dr. Arion Pons in the Division of Fluid Dynamics , and will have the opportunity to contribute to a pioneering new focus on biomimetic flight within the department.

Major responsibilities
As a PhD student, your primary role will be performing and publishing scientific and engineering research. Research areas may include engineering design of biomimetic MAVs; dynamics of vibrational propulsion systems; and biomechanics of biological flight systems. Theoretical analyses, mechanical design, and experimental testing may be involved, and it is anticipated that the line of research will be interdisciplinary, combining biomechanical and engineering studies. You will be guided by senior researchers in the department, and will be expected to communicate the results of your research at leading conferences and in international journals. A secondary role involves teaching or other departmental duties corresponding to 20% of your time.

Qualifications
To be qualified for the position, you should have a master’s degree corresponding to at least 240 higher education credits in a relevant subject – this includes mechanical engineering, mechatronics, biomechanics, physics, and others. Outstanding candidates with only a bachelor’s degree with honours will be considered. We are particularly interested in curious and creative candidates:
› with a mix of theoretical and practical skills in UAVs, dynamics and vibration, flight mechanics, engineering design, and/or biomechanics;
› with experience in interdisciplinary research, particularly the interface between biology and engineering;
› with excellent oral and written communication skills in English;
› and, with demonstrated ability to contribute to the positive and inclusive outlook of the research group.

Swedish language ability is not required. Chalmers offers optional courses in Swedish for non-native speakers.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg .
Read more about working at Chalmers  and our benefits  for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence . Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20230351 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically and be attached as PDF-files, as below. Maximum size for each file is 40 MB. Please note that the system does not support Zip files.

CV:(Please name the document: CV, Family name, Ref. number)
• CV
• Other, for example previous employments or leadership qualifications and positions of trust.
• Two references that we can contact.

Personal letter:(Please name the document as: Personal letter, Family name, Ref. number)
1-3 pages where you:
• Introduce yourself
• Describe your interest in biomimetic flight and why you are a good fit for the position
• Describe your future goals and future research focus

Other documents:
• Copies of bachelor and/or master’s thesis.
• Attested copies and transcripts of completed education, grades and other certificates, e.g. TOEFL test results.

Please use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form. 

Application deadline: July 15th, 2023

For questions, please contact:
Arion Pons
Assistant Professor.
E-mail: [email protected]

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***

Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!