Aviation Services Research Centre
Postdoctoral Fellow / Research Associate / Research Assistant
(Ref. 260616019)
(1) Postdoctoral Fellow (two posts)
(2) Research Associate / Research Assistant (two posts)
[Appointment period: each for twelve to twenty-four months]
Duties
The appointees will assist the project leader in the research project - “Airframe Inspection via Robotic Continuum Induction Thermography (AIRCIT)”. This project addresses one of aviation’s most hazardous and labour-intensive tasks: fuel tank and confined-space inspections. By integrating continuum robotics, induction thermography, and automated defect recording, AIRCIT aims to reduce inspection time by up to 70%, enhance worker safety, and deliver validated outcomes for industry partners including HAECO, HAESL, and Boeing.
Research activities will be conducted in ASRC’s fabrication facilities, laboratories, and workshops, under the University’s collaborative agreements with industry sponsors. The appointees will be required to:
(a) apply sound design and systems engineering principles to develop automated processes;
(b) support design and prototyping of continuum robots with enhanced payload and reach for confined-space inspection;
(c) contribute to the development of lightweight induction thermography heads and vision systems for crack detection beneath sealant;
(d) support the development of innovative techniques in continuum robot path planning for surface inspection processes;
(e) assist in implementing TRACE (Tracking and Recording of Anomalies in Component Evaluation) using RFID tagging and location marking systems;
(f) work with industrial partners and departmental professors to ensure deliverables align with sponsor requirements and funding compliance;
(g) generate engineering documentation in accordance with the Centre’s procedures for data development and evaluation; and
(h) perform any other duties as assigned by the project leader or his/her delegate(s).
Qualifications
Applicants for the Postdoctoral Fellow post should have a doctoral degree or an equivalent qualification and must have no more than five years of post-qualification experience at the time of application.
Applicants for the Research Associate post should have a master’s degree or a good honours degree with three years of research / relevant work experience.
Applicants for the Research Assistant post should have an honours degree or an equivalent qualification, with research / relevant work experience being an advantage.
For all posts, applicants should have:
(a) interest in working in the aviation sector, non-destructive inspection, robotics, automation, data analytics, and test specimen analysis via universal testing methods such as ultrasonic test or induction thermography; and
(b) a good command of written and spoken English.
The following skills and experience are beneficial but not mandatory:
(a) strong background in robotics, mechatronics, or mechanical systems design;
(b) experience with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods (e.g., ultrasonic, thermography, eddy current);
(c) knowledge of automation, control systems, and sensor integration;
(d) familiarity with AI/machine learning for defect detection or image analysis;
(e) proficiency in CAD/CAE tools and engineering documentation standards;
(f) hands-on experience in laboratory prototyping, testing, and data analysis; and
(g) ability to work in multi-disciplinary, sponsor-driven environments with compliance and reporting requirements.
Applicants are invited to contact Mr Robert Voyle at telephone number 3400 3504 or via email at robert.voyle@polyu.edu.hk for further information.
Conditions of Service
A highly competitive remuneration package will be offered.
Consideration of applications will commence on 24 June 2026 until the positions are filled.
Posting date: 16 June 2026