PhD Position in Energy Harvesting for Bio-Inspired Flying Robots

The section of Digital and High-Frequency Electronics at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Odense is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate for a three-year position. The research is part of the FreeFly project, which aims to develop a bird-like flying robot for the autonomous inspection of power lines.

Research Focus
You will investigate, analyze, and design novel energy-harvesting techniques that allow bio-inspired aerial robots to draw energy from the strong magnetic fields surrounding high-voltage power lines. The goal is to develop self-sustaining flying robotic systems for extended autonomous missions.

Main Tasks

• Conduct research on magnetic-field energy harvesting for bird-like autonomous flying robots.
• Participate in teaching activities, including course planning and instruction in relevant subject areas.
• Collaborate with PhD students, postdocs, and other research group members in an interdisciplinary environment.

Work Conditions
The position is based at SDU’s campus in Odense, Denmark. The starting date is January 1, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is a 3-year salaried role. Depending on a managerial assessment, employees may be exempted from time registration as "self-organizers".

Benefits

• Monthly gross salary including pension of 37,313 DKK (higher steps available for relevant postgraduate experience).
• Opportunity to work in a vibrant robotics community with a rich student life and interdisciplinary research environment.