Call for PhDs to help shape future airspace management development – SESAR research

The SESAR Engage 2 research project has announced a call for PhDs dedicated to advancing air traffic management (ATM). This initiative will provide an important occasion for supporting researchers in the development of their ideas and contribute to the evolution of the European ATM system.

The deadline for submissions is 18 February 2024, and the selection process will be overseen by the Engage 2 Awards Board, comprising consortium members, SESAR representatives, research and industry partners. This initiative represents a significant step in supporting groundbreaking research and collaboration in the field of air traffic management in Europe.

A total of 600.000 euros has been allocated to financially support PhD candidates, with each project being eligible for up to 60.000 euros.

This funding will enable researchers to explore innovative ideas, with an emphasis on Engage 2 thematic challenges as identified through the open call ended in October and available at the following link: https://engagektn.eu/thematic-challenge/ .

Applicants are encouraged to focus on the long-term evolution of the European ATM system, with proposals expected to include a comprehensive research plan, financial planning, and the credentials of the academic supervisor. The selection criteria will prioritize impact on ATM, scientific relevance, quality of research plan, and the academic merit of the supervisor.

Engage 2 also welcomes ‘blue sky’/exploratory research, which may be aligned with interdisciplinary areas or, indeed, other fields as judged by the Awards Board to offer suitable potential contributions to the wider benefit of ATM, enhancing cross-fertilisation. When appropriately motivated, student mobility between academia and industry is encouraged.

The call is open to individual entities or consortia, provided that at least one of the entities is an educational establishment authorised to issue PhDs. The research themes are not restricted to the current challenges outlined by Engage 2, allowing for a broad range of innovative and interdisciplinary projects.

In addition to financial support, Engage 2 will offer continuous learning opportunities, including summer schools and thematic workshops. These will enable PhD candidates to present their progress and interact with peers and industry experts, enhancing their research through collaboration and feedback.

Submission details here