Research Assistant in AI, Autonomy

Université Mohamed VI Polytechnique - Benguerir - Maroc

Geology & Sustainable Mining Institute GSMI

About Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P)

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is a research-driven institution dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and entrepreneurship. With a strong focus on applied research, UM6P aims to tackle sustainable development challenges in Morocco and across Africa.

Equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, the university fosters a dynamic ecosystem where students, faculty, and researchers collaborate to drive impactful change. Through interdisciplinary research and strategic partnerships with academia, industry, and policymakers, UM6P bridges the gap between scientific discovery and real-world applications.

Located in the heart of Benguerir’s Green City, UM6P aspires to make a lasting impact on national, continental, and global scales, positioning itself as a leader in education, research, and innovation.

About GSMI (Geology and Sustainable Mining Institute)

The Geology and Sustainable Mining Institute (GSMI) takes a holistic and forward-thinking approach to research and education by integrating the entire mining value chain—from geology and mineral extraction to processing, environmental sustainability, and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Beyond conventional mineral resources such as phosphates and metals, GSMI explores emerging fields including mining economics, water management, decarbonization, and paleontology. By fostering strong collaborations with industry leaders and international research institutions, GSMI ensures that its research translates into practical, sustainable solutions for the mining sector.

Through its cutting-edge programs and hands-on learning approach, GSMI plays a crucial role in shaping the future of responsible mining and resource management in Africa and beyond.

Thesis Subject Description:

Abstract:

This position focuses on the development of intelligent and autonomous drone systems, integrating AI, edge computing, and digital twin technologies for mission autonomy and predictive analytics. The research assistant will develop real-time flight control algorithms, AI-based data processing, and mission management platforms, contributing to the deployment of smart UAV demonstrators under industrial conditions.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, autonomy, digital twin, edge computing, UAV systems.

Objectives:

• Support the development of AI and machine learning algorithms for autonomous navigation.
• Assist in building digital twin models to monitor drone health and mission performance.
• Contribute to IoT integration and real-time data acquisition systems.
• Participate in testing and deployment of UAV demonstrators at UM6P and OCP sites.

Methodology:

• AI Development: Reinforcement learning, computer vision, and sensor fusion for autonomy.
• Digital Twin & Edge Computing: Implement real-time synchronization and analytics.
• IoT Integration: Design and manage data acquisition from sensors and UAVs via embedded systems.
• Validation: Participate in field trials for performance and reliability testing.

Expected Outcomes:

• Contribution to AI-enabled UAV demonstrator (TRL 6).
• Support in the deployment of a digital mission platform.
• Participation in academic or industrial publications and reports.

Profile of the Research Assistant Candidate & Application Materials:

• Engineering degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Robotics, or Electrical Engineering.
• Solid knowledge of AI/ML, embedded systems, and IoT architecture.
• Programming skills in Python, ROS, TensorFlow, or MATLAB.
• Strong interest in applied AI and autonomous systems development.

Application materials:

CV, cover letter, and one recommendation letter.

UM6P