项目介绍

2026年2月12日

The section of Digital and High-Frequency Electronics at the Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is opening three PhD positions in the area of digital and embedded electronics, energy harvesting, and bioinspired design for flying robotic technologies. The starting date is August 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.   

The Section focuses on conducting research in digital and high-frequency electronics, embedded systems, control, and communication, utilizing cutting-edge reconfigurable computing and sensors. The aim is to develop next-generation electronics and computing solutions that solve technology-related challenges in fields such as autonomous robots, drones, IoT, smart grid, and healthcare. 

The section is a vital component of our educational programs in electrical engineering in Odense, offering Bachelor’s and Master of Science degrees in Electronics Engineering.  Over the next few years, the section is expected to expand to include at least 30 academics, including PhD students and engineers, to support research funding, industrial collaboration, and educational activities. This growth will enable the section to continue its contribution to the field of electrical engineering and related areas. 

The SDU campus in Odense comprises five faculties and soon also a large university hospital creating a great concentration of academics and students facilitating interdisciplinary research and rich student life. The city of Odense is culturally rich surrounded by a vibrant and growing robotics community and highly livable with a green banked meandering river cutting through the centre and attractive residential areas. 

Job Description

We are seeking highly motivated PhD candidates to join the Carlsberg Accomplish, FreeFly project, an ambitious research project focused on developing a birdlike flying robot for autonomous powerline inspection. Three distinct PhD positions are available: 

PhD 1 – Energy Harvesting for Bio-Inspired Flying Robots 

You will investigate, analyze, and design novel energy-harvesting techniques that enable soft aerial robots to power their flight using the strong magnetic fields surrounding high-voltage powerlines. Your work will contribute to creating self-sustaining robotic systems capable of infinite flight missions. 

PhD 2 – AI-Driven Navigation and Control for Aerial Robots 

You will design and develop advanced navigation, control, and decision-making systems for aerial robots using state-of-the-art AI-methods. This includes exploring spiking neural networks accelerated by FPGA/MPSoC platforms to meet real-time robotics requirements. Your research will advance the autonomous capabilities of our self-recharging inspection drones. 

PhD 3 – Bio-Inspired Ornithopter Design 

You will focus on the design and development of a lightweight ornithopter capable of mimicking bird behavior, particularly in following the curvature of powerlines. Your work will integrate biomechanics, aerodynamics, and robotics to create a highly maneuverable inspection platform. 

General Responsibilities 

As a PhD student on this project, you will: 

• Conduct cutting-edge research contributing to the development of a birdlike autonomous flying robot for powerline inspection. 
• Participate in teaching activities, including course planning and instruction in relevant subject areas. 
• Collaborate closely with fellow PhD students, postdocs, and other members of the research group in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment. 

We are looking for detail-oriented, self-driven individuals with a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply. 

Required Qualifications 

• A completed BSc and MSc degree in electronics, robotics, mechatronics, autonomous systems, or a closely related discipline. Applicants in the final semester of their master’s program are also encouraged to apply. 
• Strong technical skills in areas such as digital electronics, hardware programming (FPGA/MPSoC), embedded hardware architectures, mechanical design, and wireless energy-harvesting technologies. 
• Demonstrated ability in academic writing, including preparing scientific reports, documentation, and research publications. 

Please indicate in your application which PhD position you are applying for. 

For further information about the position, please contact the Head of Digital and High-frequency Electronics Section, Professor Emad Samuel Malki Ebeid via email.

Please submit your application by May 1,2026, at 11:59 PM/23:59 (CET/CEST)