University of St Francis

Abstract: This research assistant focuses on the design, prototyping, and testing of bio-inspired drones, inspired by the aerodynamics and adaptability of natural flyers such as birds and bats. The candidate will contribute to the mechanical design, composite fabrication, and experimental validation of UAV structures, integrating morphing wings and additive manufacturing processes for high-performance and energy-efficient drones. Keywords: Morphing wings, composites, additive manufacturing, aerodynamics, UAV design. Objectives: The main objective is to support the development and validation of morphing drone prototypes by combining structural optimization, lightweight design, and experimental testing. The research assistant will: Participate in CAD/CAE modeling and structural optimization of UAV frames. Contribute to fabrication using composite and polymer additive manufacturing. Prepare and execute aerodynamic, vibration, and endurance testing campaigns. Assist in assembling and calibrating morphing-wing UAV prototypes. Methodology: Design and Simulation: ABAQUS, SolidWorks, ANSYS, or COMSOL for topology optimization and aerodynamic modeling. Fabrication: Composite layup, 3D printing (FDM/SLA), and assembly of drone airframes. Testing: Wind tunnel, fatigue, and flight tests for mechanical and aerodynamic validation. Data Processing: Documentation, data analysis, and contribution to reports/publications. Expected Outcomes: TRL 5 UAV prototype. 3 Q1 publications and one patent contribution. Workflow for morphing UAV design established at UM6P. Profile of the Research Assistant Candidate & Application Materials Engineering degree (Bac+5) or equivalent in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Mechatronics Engineering. Background in CAD/CAE, structural design, or composite materials. Practical experience in additive manufacturing or mechanical testing is an advantage. Autonomous, organized, and motivated to work within a multidisciplinary team. Application materials: CV, cover letter, and one recommendation letter.

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. The primary responsibility of this role is to deliver on an innovation research project where you will be part of the research team to conduct applied research in the topic of Human-in-the-Loop AI perception system that leverages user concerns and identified driving scenarios to generate new and relevant driving scenes for enhancing the perception system performance for autonomous vehicles (AV). Key Responsibilities Participate in and manage the research project with Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI and the research team members to ensure all project deliverables are met. Undertake these responsibilities in the project: Conduct the research work in Human-in-the-Loop AI perception system for autonomous driving Work with the research team, collaborators and the industry partner to design the framework of the proposed solution Carry out Risk Assessment, and ensure compliance with Work, Safety and Health Regulations. Coordinate procurement and liaison with vendors/suppliers. Work independently, as well as within a team, to ensure proper operation and maintenance of equipment Job Requirement Have relevant competence in the areas of Deep Learning/Computer Vision. The experience in diffusion models is a plus. Have a PhD degree in computer science/engineering or related disciplines. Knowledge of autonomous vehicles or cyber security will be advantageous. Have strong research record, preferably on top-tier computer science/engineering conferences. Key Competencies Specialized in computer science, computer engineering, or relevant disciplines Enthusiasm in the Deep learning and AV related research Proficient in paper writing and presentation Possess strong analytical and critical thinking skills Able to build and maintain strong working relationships with people within and external to the university Self-directed learner who believes in continuous learning and development Show strong initiative and take ownership of work

About UM6P: Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is an internationally oriented institution of higher learning, that is committed to an educational system based on the highest standards of teaching and research in fields related to the sustainable economic development of Morocco and Africa. UM6P is an institution oriented towards applied research and innovation. On a specific focus on Africa, UM6P aims to position these fields as the forefront and become a university of international standing. More than just a traditional academic institution, UM6P is a platform for experimentation and a pool of opportunities, for students, professors and staff. It offers a high-quality living and study environment thanks to its state-of-the-art infrastructure. With an innovative approach, UM6P places research and innovation at the heart of its educational project as a driving force of a business model. In its research approach, UM6P promotes transdisciplinary, entrepreneurship and collaboration with external institutions for developing up to date science and at continent level to address real challenges. All our programs run as start-ups and can be self-organized when they reach a critical mass. Thus, academic liberty is promoted as far as funding is developed by research teams. The research programs are integrated from long-term research to short-term applications in linkage with incubation and start-up ecosystems.  About ACER: The center has been recently created to address enduring process challenges in Chemistry and Engineering disciplines and create an environment for interdisciplinary research. The research program of ACER is multidisciplinary, with faculty members from backgrounds in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, and Environmental Engineering focusing on different research fields such as catalysis, separation, energy generation, conversion and storage, Plasma Science and its applications, and organic optoelectronics intelligent and advanced polymers and materials. Postdoctoral Career Opportunity: Optical and Laser Diagnostics for Plasma Propagation and Plasma-Surface Interactions Department: The Applied Chemistry and Engineering Research Center of Excellence (ACER-CoE), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) Research topic: Plasma Physics, Chemical Engineering, Energy & Sustainability Title of research project: Optical and Laser Diagnostics for Plasma Propagation and Plasma-Surface Interactions Description of the Research Project:  We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct experimental research on plasma propagation in open atmosphere and plasma-surface interactions using advanced optical and laser diagnostic techniques. The project aims to improve the understanding of the physical and chemical processes in non-thermal plasmas and how these plasmas interact with material surfaces. The successful candidate will investigate the dynamics of plasma propagation and the generation of reactive species under different operating conditions. The research will use optical emission spectroscopy (OES) and laser-based diagnostic techniques to characterize plasma properties, identify reactive species, and measure key plasma parameters, as well as the absolute densities of atoms and molecules. The project will also explore how plasma interacts with different materials and how plasma treatment modifies surface properties. Surface characterization will be carried out using techniques such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Main Responsibilities Study plasma propagation and discharge dynamics in non-thermal plasma systems Apply optical and laser diagnostic techniques to characterize plasma species and parameters Investigate plasma-surface interaction mechanisms and surface modification processes Analyze experimental data and contribute to scientific publications Requirements: PhD in Plasma Science, Chemical Engineering, or related fields Candidate Profile PhD in Plasma Physics, Applied Physics, Chemical Engineering, or related fields Experience in plasma experiments, spectroscopy, or laser diagnostics is an advantage Familiar with material characterization such as XRD, SEM, FTIR, ICP-OES Very good programming and user skills in Python, MATLAB, LABVIEW or comparable technical computing and simulation environments Good English communication skills and the ability to work effectively both independently and within a team We offer ACER CoE is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will benefit from systematic trainings, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure. For further information, please contact (et-touhami.es-sebbar@um6p.ma) Starting date: Immediately, but it can be postponed to June 2026. Application documents: Cover letter, Detailed CV with the list of publications, and contact information for 2-3 references