Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs or Drones) in Research and Industry

Welcome to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs or Drones) in Research and Industry

Description: This comprehensive three-day course immerses PhD students in the rapidly evolving domain of drone technology. This course highlights the current applications of drones in various industries and research areas, offering a blend of lectures, critical analysis of contemporary studies, hands-on experiences with UAV technology, and engaging discussions that aim to integrate drone technology into the students' existing research projects. In this modern era, the drone industry has blossomed, finding pivotal roles in sectors such as agriculture, surveillance, logistics, and environmental monitoring, among others. This course is designed to foster a deep understanding of the latest advancements and potentials of UAV technology, empowering participants to innovate and integrate drones into their research initiatives. Central to the course is the belief that drones, when harnessed effectively, can significantly augment human capabilities, offering innovative solutions and opportunities in various professional fields. During this course, participants will dive deep into the multifaceted world of UAVs, acquiring insights into the fundamental technical terminologies and methodologies associated with drone technology. The curriculum is further enriched by the insights and expertise of a panel of distinguished guest lecturers, categorized into two groups: academic researchers and industry experts. Participants will also have the opportunity to obtain their drone pilot certificate and hands-on flying experience with many drone platforms.

Learning objectives: In this course, participants will learn a concise history and overview of drones, understand the basic technical terms and techniques, and will gain an overview of broad topics of current drone research. Examples from search and rescue, surveillance, agriculture, wind turbine maintenance, and others provide a deeper understanding of the state-of-the-art research and design of drone solutions. Students will learn how to critically examine drone research articles identifying the strengths and weaknesses and possible future directions. Students will consider their current research and how the themes of this course relate to their work. Participants will also have the opportunity to obtain their drone pilot certificate and hands-on flying experience with many drone platforms.

Organizer: Timothy Merritt

Lecturers: Experts from Danish universities and companies & international experts from leading drone research labs.

ECTS: 3

Time: May 11-13, 2026

Place: Aalborg University, Rendsburggade 14, CREATE Building, Room to be determined.

City: Aalborg

Maximum number of participants: 30

Deadline: TBA

Important information concerning PhD courses: 

There is a no-show fee of DKK 3,000 for each course where the student does not show up. Cancellations are accepted no later than 2 weeks before the start of the course. Registered illness is of course an acceptable reason for not showing up on those days. Furthermore, all courses open for registration approximately four months before start of the course.

We cannot ensure any seats before the deadline for enrolment, all participants will be informed after the deadline, approximately 3 weeks before the start of the course.

For inquiries regarding registration, cancellation or waiting list, please contact the PhD administration at phdcourses@adm.aau.dk When contacting us please state the course title and course period. Thank you.