Stellenticket Technische Universität Dresden

Description of the PhD topic:
Safe and efficient flight operations are essential for IAM using unmanned, highly automated VTOL-capable aircraft. A major hazard for these light and agile vehicles comes from short-term microclimatic effects such as turbulence, which are amplified in urban environments with complex obstacles and rapidly changing wind patterns.
The PhD project focuses on modeling turbulence and vortex effects as critical safety cases for urban air mobility. Generalized models shall be adapted to real urban conditions using a combination of field measurements with 3D Doppler-LIDAR and ultrasonic anemometers, high-fidelity CFD simulations, and controlled experiments. AI-supported methods for spatiotemporal prediction of microclimatic conditions shall be explored to improve risk assessment and support safe UAV operations in dense urban airspaces.

Objectives:
The candidate may develop methods to transfer generalized turbulence and vortex models to realistic urban environments. The effects of short-term microclimatic variability and vehicle-induced vortices on VTOL UAV operations shall be quantified.
— high-fidelity CFD simulations and controlled wind-tunnel experiments to validate turbulence models
— integrate measurement data from Doppler-LIDAR and ultrasonic anemometers to improve model accuracy
— Provide validated models that contribute to flight safety assessments, risk mitigation strategies, and digital twin frameworks for IAM operations.

Tasks:
— independent and cooperative qualification through scientific research within one of the PhD study projects on offer
— training in the technical tasks of the individual dissertation topics through study of the literature and in making the objectives more precise
— working on the individual PhD study project with experimental, numerical in collaboration with other RTG members (fellow students and supervising professors)
— implementation of the planned research program, evaluation and interpretation of the results and transferring them to a RTG internal ex-change platform, elaboration and presentation of the state-of-the-art in the respective research fields
— participation in lectures, workshops and summer schools according to the guidelines of the RTG curriculum
— supporting scientific graduation work (Bachelor/Master/Diploma) in the subject-specific research field
— regular reporting on research progress to the supervising professors; publishing the results of the research work individually and in concert with others; cooperative maintenance of exchange platforms (database, information pages, etc.)
— summarizing the results of the individual PhD study project in a dissertation within the due time of four years
— Successful candidates will work together with an experienced PhD researcher at the Chair of Meteorology and together with other chairs being part of the RTG.

— good or very good university degree in meteorology, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, mathematics, robotics, or a related field
— strong analytical skills, with knowledge of fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and numerical simulation methods
— basic programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar) and familiarity with data analysis and visualization as well as experience with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and/or experimental wind-tunnel measurements is desirable
— We are looking for first-class graduates with expertise in the RTG-addressed PhD subjects, high interdisciplinary desire to learn and willingness to cooperate, very good verbal and written English communication skills as well as the absolute determination to submit the dissertation after 3 years of research.

— Pioneering Research Environment: Shape the future of advanced air mobility through involvement in innovative drone-related projects that bridge technology, urban planning, material sciences, sensors and aviation. With the upcoming Smart Mobility Lab in Lusatia, Saxony, you will have access to state-of-the-art and extensive facilities for experiments. This includes a hall measuring 100x100x30 meters and outdoor space (available from 2027).
— Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Immerse yourself in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment, where you'll work alongside experts from fields such as engineering, data science, urban studies, and aerospace.
— Skill Development: Our extensive qualification concept goes beyond research, offering targeted training in drone technology, data analytics, regulatory aspects, project management, and leadership skills. This ensures you graduate not only as a specialist in your field but also as a well-rounded professional.
— Global Networking: Collaborate with our network of local and international partners, fostering connections that transcend geographical boundaries and enrich your academic and professional network. This includes a paid research stay abroad for three months.
— Career Advancement: Receive dedicated support for fellowship applications and tailored guidance for your career.
— Quality of Life in Dresden: Experience a high quality of life in Dresden, with its dynamic urban scene, relatively affordable living, rich cultural offerings, and vibrant nightlife.

Further questions regarding this call can be addressed to Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Matthias Mauder (matthias.mauder@tu-dresden.de).

TUD strives to employ more women in academia and research. We therefore expressly encourage women to apply. The University is a certified family-friendly university. We welcome applications from candidates with disabilities. If multiple candidates prove to be equally qualified, those with disabilities or with equivalent status pursuant to the German Social Code IX (SGB IX) will receive priority for employment.
Please submit your detailed application including a cover letter detailing your research interests stating the job-ID “RTG 2947-T7/2” along with your curriculum vitae, academic transcripts with marks, a letter of recommendation and your publications (if applicable) by January 30, 2026 (stamped arrival date of the university central mail service or the time stamp on the email server of TUD applies), preferably via the TUD SecureMail Portal https://securemail.tu-dresden.de by sending it as a single pdf file to airmetro@tu-dresden.de or to:
TU Dresden, RTG 2947 “AirMetro”, Prof. Hartmut Fricke, Helmholtzstr. 10, 01069 Dresden, Germany.
Please submit copies only, as your application will not be returned to you. Expenses incurred in attending interviews cannot be reimbursed.

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