Postdoctoral Researcher – Bio‑Inspired Drone Design & Testing

About the role

The research team at UM6P is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to lead the design, fabrication, and testing of bio‑inspired drones. The project focuses on translating the aerodynamics and adaptability of birds and bats into morphing‑wing UAVs that are lightweight, energy‑efficient, and high‑performance.

Key responsibilities

• Develop CAD/CAE models and perform structural optimization of UAV frames using tools such as ABAQUS, SolidWorks, ANSYS or COMSOL.
• Fabricate drone components through composite lay‑up and additive manufacturing (FDM/SLA).
• Plan and execute aerodynamic, vibration, fatigue and endurance testing, including wind‑tunnel and flight trials.
• Assemble, calibrate and validate morphing‑wing prototypes.
• Document experimental 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 or composite materials.
• Experience with additive manufacturing or mechanical testing is a plus.
• Self‑motivated, organized and able to work in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Required skills

• CAD/CAE software (ABAQUS, SolidWorks, ANSYS, COMSOL).
• Composite lay‑up techniques.
• Additive manufacturing (FDM, SLA).
• Structural optimization and topology optimization.
• Wind‑tunnel, fatigue and flight testing.
• Data analysis and technical reporting.