Research Assistant.8800244

General Details
Position Code
8800244
Position Type
Project Based (Fixed Term)
Position Duration
15-July-2024 till 31-Dec-2024
Position Title
Research Assistant
Fund
8474000585/ VTOL UAV (SI_BoT)
Project Title
Design, Build, and Fly a Novel Vertical Take-off and Landing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Project Supervisor
Rafic Ajaj, Associate Professor, rafic.ajaj@ku.ac.ae
Academic Department
Aerospace Department
Relevant Research Center
Technical Keywords
VTOL Aircraft, Power Sharing, Stability and Control, Propulsion System
About Khalifa University
Khalifa University is ranked 181st in the QS World University Rankings 2023, and the top University in the UAE, with a range of research and academic programs designed to address the entire range of strategic, scientific and industrial challenges facing our rapidly evolving world.
Its world-class faculty and state-of-the-art research facilities provide an unparalleled learning experience to students from the UAE and around the world. Our research and academic activities cover a broad range of disciplines in engineering, science and medicine through our three colleges.
Khalifa University’s research relates to key focus sectors of relevance to the UAE’s strategic economic growth and the technology platforms that serve as foundations for these sectors. The University’s research priorities are addressed in two categories — “verticals” and “horizontals” — which jointly cover specific industry and sector needs, technical platforms and expertise.
KU’s focus sectors are Clean and Renewable Energy, Hydrocarbon Exploration and Production, Water and Environment, Healthcare, Aerospace, and Supply Chain and Logistics. Research in these sectors is enhanced by our research platforms of Robotics, AI and Data Science, Information and Communication Technologies, and Advanced Materials and Manufacturing as well as Fundamental Sciences.
Position Overview
Currently, there is a growing demand for VTOL UAVs in both the military and civilian sectors due to their multi-functionality which allows them to perform a wide range of missions. It is anticipated that there is a huge demand for VTOL UAVs in the UAE for both civilian and military applications (especially for close air support missions). It is worth noting that close air support missions require a high level of maneuverability and agility at low speeds.
KU is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to work on developing and maturing a novel VTOL RC aircraft concept. Research activities include simulation, modeling, and optimization followed by building a simplified prototype and extensive experimental testing.
Position Requirements
· Develop a novel, small VTOL RC aircraft capable of achieving high-level maneuverability at low and high speeds suitable for close air support missions.
· Develop the avionics and propulsion system of the aircraft.
· Evaluate the stability and control of the aircraft in different flight scenarios.
· Conduct comprehensive propulsion system testing.
· Adhere to the Universitys information security and confidentiality policies and procedures, and report breaches or other security risks accordingly
· Perform any other tasks assigned by the Line Manager