CIFRE - Aircraft Braking Dynamic Model Derivation for Nonlinear Robust Control Design - Job Opportunity at Airbus Operations SAS

Toulouse, France
Full-time
Entry-level
Posted: June 3, 2025
Hybrid
EUR 35,000-42,000 per year (typical CIFRE PhD stipend in France, with additional benefits and international travel allowances)

Benefits

Participation in cutting-edge aeronautical innovation with direct impact on future aircraft safety systems
Collaborative research environment bridging academic excellence and industry leadership through partnership with University of Bordeaux IMS laboratory
International exposure through work across multiple Airbus facilities including Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Bristol locations
Professional development through structured PhD program with clear milestone progression and publication opportunities
Access to advanced simulation tools and high-fidelity modeling software including SimMechanics and MATLAB/Simulink platforms
Mentorship from industry experts and academic researchers in control systems and aeronautical engineering

Key Responsibilities

Drive innovation in aircraft braking systems by developing mathematical models that will shape the safety standards of tomorrow's commercial aviation
Create high-fidelity dynamic models of braking systems using advanced Lagrange equations and SimMechanics tools to reduce validation costs and improve system reliability
Design and synthesize robust control laws for anti-skid systems that ensure aircraft safety across diverse runway contamination conditions
Develop functional engineering simulators capable of replacing expensive hardware-in-the-loop testing procedures, delivering significant cost savings to the aerospace industry
Conduct comprehensive stability and performance analysis to validate solutions in representative operational environments
Lead research publication efforts for each project phase, contributing to the global knowledge base in aerospace control systems
Collaborate with international teams across Airbus facilities in France and the UK to integrate research findings into practical engineering applications

Requirements

Education

Engineering/M2 Research Master's degree in control engineering or applied mathematics

Experience

Student level with research background

Required Skills

Strong skills in linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, differential equations, and numerical methods Knowledge of Lagrange equations is an asset Experience in modeling and simulation: Familiarity with modeling software (ideally SimMechanics/Simscape Multibody or similar tools such as MATLAB/Simulink) Strong background control engineering: Understanding of the basic principles of control, dynamic systems, and knowledge of robust control methods (PID, LTI, LPV, sliding mode, supervised control) Basic knowledge in mechanics: Understanding of the fundamental principles of solid mechanics, dynamics, and potentially fluid mechanics (for runway contamination) Programming skills: Proficiency in a scientific programming language (MATLAB) for the implementation of models and control algorithms English: fluent French: advanced level
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The aerospace industry is experiencing unprecedented demand for advanced safety systems as global air traffic continues to grow exponentially, with EASA regulations becoming increasingly stringent regarding aircraft braking performance and reliability standards. Digital transformation in aerospace manufacturing is driving the adoption of high-fidelity simulation and modeling tools to reduce physical testing costs, with companies investing heavily in virtual validation methods that can cut development timelines by 30-40%. The shift toward more sustainable aviation practices is creating demand for lighter, more efficient braking systems that maintain safety standards while reducing aircraft weight and environmental impact. Artificial intelligence and machine learning integration in aerospace control systems is becoming a key differentiator, with companies seeking engineers who can bridge traditional control theory with modern computational approaches.

Role Significance

Small, elite research team of 3-5 specialists working closely with international collaborators, providing high visibility and direct mentorship from industry leaders and academic experts.
This represents a strategic entry-level research position with significant influence on future aerospace safety standards, offering direct access to senior engineering leadership and the opportunity to shape industry practices through innovative research contributions.

Key Projects

Development of next-generation anti-skid control algorithms for commercial aircraft Creation of industry-standard simulation platforms for braking system validation Integration of robust control methods into safety-critical aerospace applications Establishment of new mathematical frameworks for aircraft system modeling

Success Factors

Ability to translate complex mathematical concepts into practical engineering solutions that meet stringent aerospace safety requirements Strong collaboration skills to work effectively across international teams and bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application Proficiency in advanced simulation tools and programming languages essential for developing high-fidelity models Understanding of regulatory frameworks and certification processes that govern aerospace safety systems Publication and presentation skills to communicate research findings to both academic and industry audiences

Market Demand

High demand driven by aerospace industry growth and critical shortage of control systems engineers with both theoretical knowledge and practical aerospace application experience

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Advanced mathematical modeling capabilities are essential as they form the foundation for developing accurate representations of complex braking systems that must perform reliably under extreme conditions and varying environmental factors. Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink and SimMechanics is crucial for creating the high-fidelity simulations that will replace expensive physical testing procedures and enable rapid iteration of design concepts. Deep understanding of control theory, particularly robust control methods, is vital for developing anti-skid systems that must maintain stability and performance across the wide range of operating conditions encountered in commercial aviation. Strong programming skills enable the implementation of complex algorithms and the integration of mathematical models into practical engineering tools that can be used throughout the aerospace industry.

Beneficial Skills

Knowledge of certification processes and regulatory frameworks would accelerate integration of research outcomes into commercial applications Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing systems would enhance the practical applicability of developed models Understanding of aircraft systems integration would provide valuable context for how braking systems interact with other aircraft subsystems Project management skills would support the coordination of research activities across multiple international locations and stakeholder groups

Unique Aspects

Rare opportunity to work on safety-critical systems that directly impact millions of passengers worldwide
Access to proprietary aerospace technologies and advanced simulation platforms not available in academic settings
Integration of multiple engineering disciplines including control theory, mechanical systems, and software development
Direct collaboration with regulatory bodies and certification authorities in developing industry standards
Potential for patent development and intellectual property creation in advanced aerospace technologies

Career Growth

3-4 years for PhD completion followed by 2-3 years to senior engineering roles, with potential for management positions within 7-10 years

Potential Next Roles

Senior Control Systems Engineer at major aerospace manufacturers Research and Development Manager leading advanced systems integration projects Technical Consultant specializing in aerospace safety and certification Academic positions in aerospace engineering with industry collaboration opportunities

Company Overview

Airbus Operations SAS

Airbus Operations SAS stands as the world's leading aircraft manufacturer alongside Boeing, representing the pinnacle of European aerospace engineering excellence with a comprehensive portfolio spanning commercial aviation, defense, and space technologies.

Global market leader with approximately 50% of the commercial aircraft market share, commanding premium positioning through technological innovation and safety leadership in the aerospace industry.
This role positions the candidate at the heart of European aerospace innovation, with Toulouse serving as Airbus's global headquarters and primary research hub, offering unparalleled access to industry leaders and cutting-edge facilities.
Airbus fosters a collaborative, innovation-driven environment that emphasizes safety, sustainability, and technological excellence, with strong support for professional development and international career mobility across global operations.
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