PRR Project

Summary

Background and RationaleAs the Facudade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto (FEUP) gears towards introducing a new Bachelor´s and Master´s degree in Aerospace Engineering (AE), this specialized position will play a key role in not only shaping the curriculum but also aligning the institution with the R&D activities led by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Southern Observatory (ESO), on so-called adaptive optics technologies, whereas applied to astronomical observations from the ground, Earth observation from low orbit satellites or even optical telecommunications with and between satellites and/or ground stations.The position is highly interdisciplinary in Space Sciences, enabling ample opportunities stemming from the Engineering Physics Department to collaborate with other Departments and existing Research and Development (R&D) institutes within or close to the FEUP perimeter, be it INESC-TEC, LAETA/INEGI, SYSTEC or even biomedical engineering. Key Tasks and Responsibilities 1. Leverage Portuguese Instrumentation Capacity: Harness the expertise in instrumentation within Portugal and coordinate the active participation of national teams in the development of 1st and 2nd light instruments for ESO (e.g. METIS) and ESA reference missions (e.g. LISA) 2. Advanced Training & Courses: Deliver both early-stage and advanced training courses covering essential subjects such as physics (with a focus on optics and electromagnetics), mathematics, and instrumentation in aerospace. 3. Promote Micro/Nano-Technologies in Space Systems: Engage faculty and students in exploring the future applications of micro/nano-technologies in space systems, focusing on ESA´s telecommunication, navigation and remote sensing programs. 4. Collaborate with ESA/ESO Education Offices: Establish connections with agencies in projects such as ESA´s Fly Your Satellite! and Drop Your Thesis! Programme, ESEO, and SSETI, fostering hands-on learning experiences. 5. High-Quality Publication Record: Uphold a high standard of international publications, contributing to the global body of knowledge in PE and AE. 6. Supervise Research Projects: Supervise one PhD and two M.Sc. students on-average annually, providing mentorship and guidance in their research endeavours. 7. Participate in Managerial Activities: Collaborate with departmental and university leadership to contribute to strategic planning and decision-making. 8. Technology Transfer: Actively contribute to and foster the Technology Transfer Initiatives in Portugal and abroad. Seek national and international incubation opportunities, such as the ESA Business Incubation Centre, to support technology transfer into practical applications. 9. Support National Industry in Call-for-Tender Applications: actively engage in call-for-tender applications to leverage expertise and enhance the competitiveness of the Portuguese industry. 10. Grant Application: Actively pursue grants from national and international sources, aligning with the strategic priorities of ESA, ESO, the Portuguese Space Agency, and FEUPs. Seek funding for projects that advance research in optics and telecommunications in aerospace engineering.Scientific Profile and QualificationsThe ideal candidate for this faculty position should possess:A Ph.D. in Physics with a background in Engineering Physics or Aerospace EngineeringExpertise in optics, optical propagation, high-angular resolution imaging and instrumentation developmentProven success in acquiring research grants and coordinating international research teamsExperience working with or for large European organizations, particularly in the aerospace sectorA commitment to advancing the goals outlined in the strategic plans of FEUP and the Department of Engineering Physics.Meeting the University´s Growing NeedsThe imperative to hire in this scientific area stems from critical factors essential for FEUP´s strategic growth in Engineering Physics and Aerospace Engineering: Succession Planning: Anticipated departures of established DEF professors necessitate recruiting qualified faculty for seamless transitions, ensuring the continuity of academic excellence. Challenges in Space Sciences/Aerospace Technologies: Rapid advancements and emerging challenges in aerospace technologies demand an agile academic response. The new faculty member will address evolving needs, positioning UP at the forefront of technological innovation and societal relevance. Reinforcement of R&D Initiatives: Strengthening R&D initiatives, aligned with ESA and ESO goals, requires expertise in optics and telecommunications. This expertise reinforces collaborative projects and enhances FEUP´s role as a pivotal contributor to European space science and technology advancements.In summary, hiring one such profile is critical for FEUP to ensure continuity, address challenges in space science technologies, and fortify its position as a leading institution in R&D initiatives aligned with ESA and ESO.