Click here to join now
University: Delft University of Technology
Location: Delft, Netherlands
Department: Faculty of Aerospace Engineering
Supervisor: Mirjam Snellen – [email protected]
Deadline: April 4, 2026
About the PhD Project
As drone operations rapidly expand across Europe, understanding their environmental and societal impact has become critical. This PhD position at Delft University of Technology focuses on noise impact assessment of urban drone operations, addressing one of the key priorities in the European Commission’s Drone Strategy 2.0.
The project supports the development of robust methodologies for evaluating and mitigating drone noise, particularly in urban environments and U-Space operations. Noise is a major factor influencing public acceptance of delivery drones and eVTOL aircraft, making accurate modelling and assessment essential.
You will develop machine learning-based drone noise models capable of generating acoustic footprints based on drone design and operational parameters. Beyond standard sound pressure levels, the research will incorporate psychoacoustic modelling, evaluating perceived annoyance for humans and potentially wildlife.
The position is part of the EU-funded Horizon Europe / SESAR project TUNED, in collaboration with EUROCONTROL and the University of Salford, providing strong international research and industry networking opportunities.
Research Responsibilities
- Develop AI/ML-based models for drone noise prediction
- Design and contribute to acoustic measurement campaigns
- Model Urban Air Mobility (UTM) operations and simulation environments
- Support adaptation of EU noise regulations for new aviation technologies
- Contribute to international consortium research activities
You will join the Operations and Environment (O&E) section within the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, which focuses on aircraft noise, emissions, climate impact, air traffic management, and sustainable aviation technologies.
Requirements
- MSc in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautics, or a comparable field
- Strong knowledge of AI and machine learning methods
- Background in acoustics and air traffic management (preferred)
- Excellent programming skills (Python, Java, C++ or similar)
- Strong mathematical skills
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Experience writing scientific reports or papers is an advantage
Employment Conditions
- 4-year PhD position (initial 1.5-year contract with go/no-go evaluation, followed by 2.5-year extension)
- Monthly salary ranging from €3,059 to €3,881 (full-time, 38 hours/week)
- 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
- Enrollment in the TU Delft Graduate School with structured doctoral training
- Relocation support through the Coming to Delft Service
- Access to mentoring, diversity initiatives, and dual career support
About TU Delft
Delft University of Technology is a globally recognized technical university known for innovation in engineering, sustainability, and climate solutions. The Faculty of Aerospace Engineering leads research in sustainable aviation, energy transition, safety, and security, contributing to Europe’s independence and climate goals.
Application Procedure
Apply online before April 5, 2026, including:
- CV
- Motivation letter (addressed to Mirjam Snellen)
Applications by email or post will not be processed. A knowledge security risk assessment is part of the final recruitment stage.
For additional information, contact:
- Mirjam Snellen – [email protected]
- Joost Ellerbroek – [email protected]
This PhD position offers the opportunity to shape the future of urban air mobility, drone noise regulation, and sustainable aviation systems through advanced modelling and international collaboration.
Apply now at: https://careers.tudelft.nl/job/Delft-PhD-Position-Noise-Impact-Assessment-of-Urban-Drone-Operations-2628-CD/1353919657/
