Faculty Member - Tenure-Track/Tenured (Engineering Product Development)

The Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) is a young and innovative university with a unique educational structure and a mission to create a better world by design. Established in 2009 as Singapore’s fourth public university, in collaboration with MIT and Zhejiang University, SUTD is recognised for its innovative, active-based learning pedagogy and an interdisciplinary pillar organisation. With a stellar faculty, a small student-to-faculty ratio, and a beautiful campus, SUTD aims to nurture future technological leaders in engineering and architecture. At SUTD, technology and design education are paramount. Our pedagogy integrates engineering principles and design thinking throughout the undergraduate curriculum. More than just interdisciplinary, our courses bridge multiple dimensions of learning (D) in a unique 1-D, 2-D, and 3-D project-based framework.

MIT News Article on SUTD’s Engineering Education

About the Position

SUTD’s Engineering Product Development (EPD) Pillar invites applications for a tenure-track or tenured faculty position specialising in Aerial Robotics. We seek candidates with expertise in emerging aerial robotic systems, including multirotor drones, flapping-wing (bio-inspired) UAVs, morphing aerial structures, aerial manipulation platforms, and other novel flight systems. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead cutting-edge research and education in the field of aerial robotics within SUTD’s cross-disciplinary, design-centric ecosystem. The successful candidate will collaborate with a dynamic team of faculty across multiple engineering disciplines and engage with Singapore’s thriving aviation and technology sectors, including government agencies, aerospace companies, and research partners, to drive innovation in next-generation aerial robotic systems.

Role and Responsibilities

• Teaching: Teach courses in robotics and related engineering areas at the undergraduate and graduate levels. This may include topics such as aerial vehicle design, dynamics and control, mechatronics, autonomous systems, and related subjects, with an emphasis on hands-on learning and project-based work.
• Curriculum Development: Develop and deliver high-quality, student-centered courses and content focusing on aerial robotics. Employ active learning and design-thinking pedagogies to create immersive learning experiences in drone design, prototyping, and testing.
• Innovation in Aerial Robotics: Drive curricular updates and continuous education initiatives to incorporate emerging trends in aerial robotics (e.g. AI-enabled autonomous navigation, swarm robotics, flapping-wing flight, advanced materials and additive manufacturing for UAVs). Ensure that SUTD’s curriculum remains at the forefront of technological advances in this field.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with colleagues in interdisciplinary projects and research, contributing aerial robotics expertise to solve complex engineering challenges. Integrate mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering perspectives in research initiatives to develop innovative aerial robotic solutions.
• Student Mentorship: Mentor and supervise students at all levels (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) on capstone projects and research in aerial robotics, fostering an innovative mindset and ensuring industry relevance. Guide students in designing, building, and testing novel robotic systems for real-world applications.
• Industry and Research Engagement: Lead outreach and partnerships with industry, government agencies, and other academic or research institutions to expand SUTD’s aerial robotics initiatives. Seek research funding and collaborative projects that enhance SUTD’s profile in drones and autonomous systems and develop opportunities for continuous learning programmes in this domain.

Becoming part of SUTD

If you have a passion for teaching and cutting-edge research in aerial robotics, and a desire to shape future technology leaders, you will find a supportive environment at SUTD. You will work alongside faculty from diverse backgrounds to collaborate on interdisciplinary research and curriculum initiatives in robotics, autonomous systems, and related areas. Whether you are just beginning your career or looking to further develop your academic profile, SUTD provides a vibrant platform to leave your mark on aerial robotics innovation – especially in areas aligned with the university’s strategic growth domains (Sustainability, Cities, Aviation, Healthcare, and AI). SUTD’s culture of design-centered engineering and cross-disciplinary collaboration means you will have opportunities to translate ideas into impactful solutions across various sectors.

Qualifications and Attributes

Candidates for this position should possess the following qualifications and attributes:

• Research Excellence: A strong research background in robotics – preferably with a focus on aerial robotics – demonstrated by a track record of high-quality publications, patents, and/or innovative projects. Ability to establish an independent research programme and attain research funding in the aerial robotics field.
• Teaching and Mentorship: Commitment to excellence in teaching and mentoring. Ability to develop and teach courses in robotics and engineering design. Prior teaching experience or pedagogical training (especially in project-based learning or design innovation) is advantageous, as is any evidence of effective teaching (e.g. positive student feedback).
• Interdisciplinary and Design Aptitude: Genuine enthusiasm for cross-disciplinary collaboration and design-centric innovation. Willingness to integrate knowledge from mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering (and beyond) in both research and education.
• Communication and Collaboration: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with students, colleagues, and external partners. A demonstrated ability to work in teams and contribute to a collegial academic environment.
• Industry Engagement: A proactive mindset for industry engagement and societal impact. Drive to collaborate with industry stakeholders and government agencies, and to translate research outcomes into real-world applications or entrepreneurship. (Prior experience in working with industry or securing industry-funded projects is a plus.)

SUTD welcomes applications from both early-career researchers with exceptional potential and mid-career faculty with established track records. The appointment will be made at a rank commensurate with the candidate’s experience and accomplishments.

Application Procedure

Please submit a complete application package that includes the following:

• Cover Letter: A statement of interest highlighting your fit for the position and relevant experience in aerial robotics.
• Teaching Statement: Summary of teaching philosophy and experience (including prior teaching roles and any available student feedback or evaluations).
• Research Statement: Outline of past research accomplishments and future research plans in aerial robotics and related areas.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Full resume including academic background, appointments, list of publications, awards, and other relevant accomplishments.
• Sample Publications: Examples of your scholarly work (e.g. one or two representative publications in robotics or engineering).
• References: Contact information for three references who can comment on your research and teaching qualifications.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. The successful candidate is expected to commence employment at SUTD on a mutually agreed date.

Join us at SUTD and help define the future of Aerial Robotics in an innovative, design-focused academic environment. We look forward to your application!