Research Associate (6-Month Term) - Vehicle Simulation Laboratory

Date Posted: 04/21/2026

Req ID: 47802

Faculty/Division: Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering

Department: Inst for Aerospace Studies

Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

Position Number: 00052421

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.

Note: 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 2SLGBTQ+ 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.

A Job Description Is Available Upon Request

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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 persons, women, persons with disabilities, and people of diverse sexual and gender identities. We value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential to strengthening our academic mission.

As part of your application, you will be asked to complete a brief Diversity Survey. This survey is voluntary. Any information directly related to you is confidential and cannot be accessed by search committees or human resources staff. Results will be aggregated for institutional planning purposes. For more information, please see http://uoft.me/UP.

Accessibility Statement

The University strives to be an equitable and inclusive community, and proactively seeks to increase diversity among its community members. Our values regarding equity and diversity are linked with our unwavering commitment to excellence in the pursuit of our academic mission.

The University is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). As such, we strive to make our recruitment, assessment and selection processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations as required for applicants with disabilities.

If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact uoft.careers@utoronto.ca.

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