Master Thesis on Digital Twin Simulation of UAV RF Communication and Sensing Systems

The DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation is dedicated to mission‑oriented research in selected areas of communications and navigation. Its work ranges from the theoretical foundations to the demonstration of new procedures and systems in a real environment and is embedded in DLR's Space, Aeronautics, Transport, Security and Digitalization programmes.

What To Expect

The Advanced Information Processing Group aims at applying state‑of‑the‑art theoretical results into real‑world applications within information processing systems. The expertise of the group ranges from quantum error correction to Smart Data Management, exploring cutting‑edge communication theories such as semantic communication and Age of Information, pushing the boundaries of data utilisation and dissemination.

Your tasks

• Develop a digital twin platform for RF communication and signal intelligence by integrating NVIDIA Sionna‑based physical layer simulation with a drone simulation environment.
• Consider RF propagation, communications protocols and interference together with flight dynamics, mobility patterns, and environmental factors (e.g., terrain, obstacles, weather) within the platform.
• Use the simulator as a data generation and validation tool for AI‑based receivers and protocols, allowing controlled experimentation of complex scenarios such as swarm‑based sensing or disaster response without requiring costly real‑world deployments.

Your profile

• Basic knowledge of communication systems or signal processing.
• Interest in machine learning and/or AI methods.
• Programming skills (e.g., Python) and willingness to learn new tools.
• Initial experience with simulations or data‑driven methods is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and interest in interdisciplinary topics.
• Good knowledge of English language.

We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy‑ID 4860) please contact: Dr. Andrea Munari Tel.: +49 (0) 8153 - .