Research Engineer Aerospace Engineering Khalifa University

Yahsat Space Lab (YSL) at KU is looking for motivated candidate to join their team as a Research Engineer to support Active Debris Removal (ADR) at low Earth orbit. The ADR research engineer is responsible for ensuring the overall small form factor satellite/CubeSat based capturing of space debris, from identifying high priority debris to orbital analysis to designing flexible capturing mechanisms to deorbiting manoeuvre. The ADR research engineer is to provide necessary technical oversight and perform functional duties as required. In addition, the ADR research engineer will directly support satellite program development at YSL, and engage in developing critical framework for simulation and analysis to demonstrate the feasibility of ADR concept by utilizing CubeSats. Furthermore, the research engineer will lead the development of required hardware prototype and bench testing.

Responsibilities of Research Engineer

• Design CubeSat based Active Debris Removal (ADR) systems, in coordination with the project team consisting of orbital mechanics, micro propulsion, GN&C, communications, etc.
• Design specific robotic capturing mechanisms; including component selection, kinematics and dynamics analysis.
• Space segment procurement activities focusing on ADR relevant electronics hardware and test equipment.
• Participate in the electrical integration and the testing of different CubeSat modules, including the preparation of the bill of material, integration procedures for all active subsystems in collaboration with the systems engineer.
• Writing and maintaining technical documentation relevant to ADR systems.

Job Requirements

The requirements for the job role of Research Engineer are as under:

• MSc from a reputable university in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum 2 year experience in similar role.

Skills & Knowledge Desired

• The candidate should have prior experience in conducting research in space debris and analyzing and categorizing according to their dimensions and orbits.
• Active Debris Removal (ADR) mechanism design and analysis based on mission needs.
• Experience in orbit design and analysis for CubeSat missions.
• Experience in engineering procurement activities; in coordination with cost and planning.
• Hands on experience in developing hardware prototype for space applications.
• Experience in designing and analyzing laser ablation device as space propulsion concept.
• Ability to function as a team player working on multiple tasks with competing demands and deadlines.
• Well developed reasoning and problem solving skills.
• Good oral and written communication skills in English.
• Hands on experience in developing space robotics.
• Experience in component or part selection for space applications.
• Experience in environmental test and validation.

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