Job Description:

In order to support the advancement in the field of conjunction analysis and collision avoidance of space assets, Airbus Defence and Space is looking for a

PhD on Autonomous Operations and Cognitive Processor Implementation for Space Systems (d/f/m)

Are you looking for a PhD opportunity and want to gain deep hands-on experience in spacecraft autonomy, real-time embedded systems, and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) robotics? Then apply now!

We look forward to you supporting us in the department of Functional Architecture and Validation as a PhD candidate.

• Location: Friedrichshafen
• Start: 01.09.2026
• Duration: 3 years

Your location

At the Airbus site in Friedrichshafen you will be working on innovation where others spend their holidays. Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Constance while having lunch in our canteen. And after work, join one of our many corporate sports groups to go running, sailing or skiing.
 

Your benefits

• Attractive salary and work-life balance with an 35-hour week (flexitime).
• International environment with the opportunity to network globally.
• Work with modern/diversified technologies.
• At Airbus, we see you as a valuable team member and you are not hired to brew coffee, instead you are in close contact with the interfaces and are part of our weekly team meetings.
• Opportunity to participate in the Generation Airbus Community to expand your own network.

Your tasks and responsibilities

This PhD project will be carried out as part of our advanced research activities exploring the application of Artificial Intelligence and autonomous Navigation & Guidance in space-borne systems. The project bridges the gap between software simulation and physical reality by deploying advanced algorithms onto a space-representative Cognitive Processor (System-on-Chip/FPGA).

As a PhD candidate, your work will be uniquely split between applied engineering and academic research. You will be responsible for the core technical implementation of the processing hardware, establishing complex real-time interfaces with physical sensors and robotic testbeds, while simultaneously driving the research definition of autonomous operations and higher-level functions executed on the edge processor.

In your role as PhD candidate you will be responsible of the following tasks

• Research & Definition: Define and research novel architectures and methodologies for autonomous operations and higher-level GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) functions on embedded space hardware.
• Hardware Implementation: Set up and configure the Cognitive Processor (SoC/FPGA), establishing and managing hardware transmission protocols (e.g., MIPI CSI-2, LVDS, GigE Vision) to interface with physical sensors (RGB cameras, LiDAR) and simulation PCs.
• Real-Time Systems: Implement, configure, and maintain a Real-Time Operating System (RTOS) environment (e.g., embedded Linux / PetaLinux with PREEMPT_RT) to guarantee strict timing deadlines for closed-loop robotic control.
• Software Deployment: Support the integration, optimization, and deployment of external C++ GNC and AI code provided by project partners onto the target processing board.
• Robotic Integration: Actively participate in FlatSat and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test campaigns, integrating the processor with physical robotic facilities (e.g., cable-driven robots) to validate closed-loop autonomous behaviors.
• Academic Contribution: Document findings and results comprehensively, driving publications in high-ranking conferences and scientific journals over the 3-year period.

Desired skills and qualifications

• Completed Master’s degree (and eligible for PhD enrollment) in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Embedded Systems, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
• Strong hands-on background in Embedded Linux and Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS).
• Experience with SoC/FPGA architectures and hardware description languages (VHDL/Verilog).
• Knowledge of high-speed hardware transmission protocols (particularly MIPI and LVDS).
• Solid programming skills in C++ for embedded systems; familiarity with Python or MATLAB/Simulink is a plus.
• Practical experience with robotics, hardware integration, or Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing environments.
• A strong drive to tackle both low-level technical implementation challenges and high-level academic research.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, research-oriented environment.

​Please upload the following documents: cover letter, CV, relevant transcripts, masters’ degree certificate. 

Not a 100% match? No worries! Airbus supports your personal growth.

Take your career to a new level and apply online now!

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

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