PhD in mechanical engineering
priority research area: SecurityTech
Scientific achievements
Maciej Podsędkowski, PhD, Eng., is a young scientist in the discipline of mechanical engineering. He received his PhD in 2025 and his research focuses on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) for dual-use applications. He has published seven articles in journals such as the Journal of Intelligent & Robotic Systems and Aerospace Science and Technology. He is a co-author of five patents in the field of aviation technology, a winner of scientific awards, and an active popularizer of knowledge about unmanned systems.His most important scientific achievement is the development and experimental validation of a variable pitch propeller for UAVs, including aerodynamic, acoustic and operational analysis. This achievement lays the
foundation for further work on efficient and quieter UAV propulsion systems and on methods for passive detection of drones inflight.
Research profile
He builds a specialized and at the same time interdisciplinary research profile focused on unmanned aerial vehicle technology, aeroacoustics and advanced propulsion systems. He is particularly interested in the aerodynamics and dynamics of variable pitch propellers, optimizing the efficiency of the drives. He analyzes and models aeroacoustic phenomena, developing acoustic detection methods and improving operating parameters, with applications for monitoring and security systems. In his research, he combines experimental and numerical methods. His research profile includes the development of dual-use solutions, in line with current trends.
Projects and cooperation
Early in his career, he is gaining project experience. He manages a ministerial grant for a student scientific club „Albatros drone for search and transport in rescue units” and a project on the optimization of UAV drives with variable rotor geometry financed by the FU2N TUL grant. He also participates in the international Horizon Europe HE-ART project on hybrid propulsion systems. He actively cooperates with the aviation and technology industry, Vibroson, WZL1, and Airbus Helicopters Polska, implementing projects related to measurement equipment, propulsion systems and aviation technologies.