Position: Research Associate (6-Month Term) - Vehicle Simulation Laboratory
Research Associate (6-Month Term) - Vehicle Simulation Laboratory
Date Posted: 04/21/2026
Req : 47802
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering
Department: Inst for Aerospace Studies
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)
Position Number:
Existing Vacancy: Yes
Description:
The University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS) invites applications for a Research Associate (2 Year Term) position affiliated with the Vehicle Simulation Laboratory (VSL). This position is focused on the identification of fixed wing aircraft models from flight test data for use in training simulators that span the range from low-fidelity Flight Training Devices (FTDs) to high-fidelity Level D Full Flight Simulators (FFSs).
The researcher will take a leadership role to fulfill the research goals of the principal investigator (PI) and will work closely with a small group of graduate students.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a research plan with the PI and the Alliance Grant partners to achieve the research goals of the Alliance Grant.
- Develop a low-cost, efficient aerodynamic model development process that leverages VSL’s state-of-the-art Robust MAP identification algorithms, including but not limited to:
- specification of flight test instrumentation, with an aim to minimizing the time/cost
- specification of a minimum set of flight test maneuvers that will support development of aerodynamic models at the level of fidelity appropriate for the different types of simulators (FTD Level 1 to FFS Level
D)
- development and application of a state-of-the-art Robust MAP based identification algorithm as needed to support the projects goals
- Co-supervising and mentoring graduate students who are working on related aspects of the Alliance project including:
- Development of a sub-scale flight test facility for validating aspects of the Robust MAP algorithm
- Development and validation of a deep-learning model of thrust produced by the aircraft propulsion system.
- Preparing manuscripts, patents, technical reports, and funding proposals
- Co-ordinating with the corporate partners involved in the associated NSERC Alliance grant.
- The research associate is expected to publish both at conferences and in journals.
Qualifications
Education
- Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or acceptable combination of equivalent experience in the development and application of robust state estimation methods to flight model development.
Experience
- Minimum 4 years of research experience in the development of identification methods for aerodynamic model development in the non-linear flight regime (i.e. large maneuvers, high angle of attack, high sideslip).
- Hands on experience in applying state estimations methods to real aircraft flight test data.
- Proven track record in developing identification methods that are applicable to fixed wing aerodynamic modeling.
- Familiarity with flight test instrumentation and flight test maneuver specification.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to explain complex concepts to a wide range of audience.
Skills
- Proficient in MATLAB programming.
- Proficient in writing high quality journal/conference papers.
- Proven ability to work independently.
- Experience writing scientific proposals.
- Demonstrated ability to exercise a high level of confidentiality, professionalism, good judgement, initiative, tact, discretion and make sound decisions.
- Excellent interpersonal and customer services skills with the demonstrated ability to develop strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to work with students (undergrad, graduate), and able to teach technical concepts to this cohort.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines, multi-task and adapt to changing priorities.
- Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and the promotion of a respectful and collegial learning and work environment.
This is a 6-month term position with the possibility of renewal.
Closing Date: 04/30/2026, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: Research Associate
Appointment Type: Grant - Term
Schedule: Full-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone: R01 -- Research Associates (Limited Term): $53,520 - $100,350
Job Category: Engineering / Technical
Lived Experience Statement
Candidates who are members of Indigenous, Black, racialized and 2
SLGBTQ+ communities, persons with disabilities, and other equity deserving groups are encouraged to apply, and their lived experience shall be taken into consideration as applicable to the posted position.
Diversity Statement
The University of Toronto embraces diversity and is building a culture of belonging that increases our capacity to effectively address and serve the interests of our global community. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, Black and racialized pe