Postdoctoral Researcher – Bio‑Inspired Drone Design & Testing

About the role

The project aims to develop bio‑inspired drones that mimic the aerodynamics of birds and bats. As a Postdoctoral Researcher you will lead the design, fabrication, and experimental validation of morphing‑wing UAV prototypes.

Key responsibilities

• Perform CAD/CAE modeling and structural/topology optimization of UAV frames using tools such as ABAQUS, SolidWorks, ANSYS or COMSOL.
• Develop and fabricate composite structures and polymer parts through lay‑up techniques and additive manufacturing (FDM/SLA).
• Plan and execute aerodynamic, vibration, fatigue and endurance testing in wind tunnels and flight campaigns.
• Assemble, calibrate and iterate morphing‑wing drone prototypes.
• Document test data, analyse results and contribute to scientific publications and patent filings.

Required profile

• Master’s degree (Bac+5) or equivalent in Aerospace, Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering.
• Strong background in CAD/CAE, structural design and composite materials.
• Experience with additive manufacturing or mechanical testing is a plus.
• Self‑motivated, organized and able to work in a multidisciplinary research team.

Required skills

• ABAQUS
• SolidWorks
• ANSYS
• COMSOL
• Composite lay‑up
• 3D printing (FDM, SLA)
• Wind tunnel testing
• Fatigue testing
• Flight testing

What we offer

• Opportunity to develop a TRL‑5 UAV prototype.
• Contribution to high‑impact journal articles and a patent.
• Collaboration with the research centre at UM6P.