PhD Position: Safe and secure adaptive IMA using Machine Learning

Institute of Aircraft Systems:

We research new methods for the development, assurance and automation of complex safety-critical systems. Join a young and motivated team engaged in methods, software and hardware of complex systems at one of the rare places able to build real fly-by-wire systems.

Aerospace Engineering and Geodesy Faculty:

With 2000 students, aerospace engineering is the largest study program in University of Stuttgart. Moreover, it is the largest and oldest aerospace program in Germany with 14 institutes, 34 professors and ~300 employees. We offer a unique combination of traditional aerospace and modern methods from aerodynamic to AI on a green and modern campus.

Flying is the safest mode of transportation. Survival on board depends on complex electronic systems. Aerospace has stringent standards for safety-critical hardware and software, which results in the safety level perceived today, but require high effort. Currently, UAS, crew reduction and AI are going to revolutionize aviation, but these types of systems can be hardly made safe and secure with existing approaches due to their complexity.

The overall goal is to implement self-configuring avionics modules. Among the pure implementation of the technical aspects, you need to consider safety and certification challenges in a field that is just developing the first standards to certify Machine Learning applications.

• Master in aerospace engineering, computer science, mathematics or similar
• Highly motivated with problem solving skills and research-oriented thinking
• Proficient oral and written communication skills and fluent in English
• Experience in avionics systems, machine learning and corresponding standards is a bonus.

• Fixed-term contract up to 5 years
• A full position paid according to the German tariff (TV-L 13)
• Starting date: As soon as possible