Summer 2027 - Adaptive Control for Active Structural Control

Join the “Adaptive Control for Active Structural Control” experimental flight test campaign, where we are advancing flexible-wing aircraft modeling and control through an integrated fly–fix–fly framework. Instead of relying primarily on computational methods, Through a series of progressive flight experiments, we are evaluating additively manufactured wings for both control effectiveness and aeroelastic stability as well as adaptive/active control technologies. From CAD design and instrumenting 3D-printed UAV prototypes to conducting build up flight tests and validating adaptive control laws in flight, you'll experience part of the cycle from a rapid concept to flight demonstration.

Preferred Qualifications:
- Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- Proficiency in MATLAB/SIMULINK, C, C++ and/or Python programming.
- Proficiency in CAD design (SolidWorks or Creo)
- Experience in 3D printing
- Experience with microcontrollers (Raspberry Pi), autopilots (Pixhawk), sensors, and actuators (servos)
- Basic understanding of flight control systems, control theory, and embedded systems.
- Knowledge of communication protocols (UART, CAN, SPI, I2C, Ethernet)

Key Responsibilities:
-Assist in hardware integration and testing of sensors, actuators, and avionics systems for flexible wing UAV platforms
-Develop and maintain low-level drivers and interfaces for critical communication protocols including UART, CAN, Ethernet, SPI, and I2C
-Research and specify instrumentation and avionics requirements needed to fly scaled flexible wing vehicles
-Assist in CAD modeling and 3D printing of aircraft center body components and wing designs
-Support initial development of control laws in simulation environments
-Participate in unit testing, system-level integration, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing simulations to validate control software with real sensor and actuator interfaces
- Basic knowledge in OpenVSP (preferred but not required)

This position is open full-time. In order to work full-time, students can take a semester off or attend classes part-time. If considered for the position you will be required to submit updated transcripts, work availability, and a class schedule if taking courses. Hours worked will be Monday-Friday between 7am-4:30pm, with every other Friday off. On-site work at AFRC is required.

**Eligible Applicants:** Student
**Academic Level:** Undergraduate Sophomore, Undergraduate Junior, Undergraduate Senior, Graduate Master's
**Activity Type:** In-person
**Citizenship:** US Citizen Only
**Type:** Internships