SAR Imaging from Drone-Borne Radar Platforms

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is a powerful remote sensing technology capable of generating high-resolution images independent of daylight and weather conditions. Recent advances in compact radar sensors and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) enable the deployment of SAR systems on drones, opening new opportunities for applications such as environmental monitoring, infrastructure inspection, precision agriculture, security, and mapping. In this project, the student will contribute to the development and evaluation of SAR imaging algorithms for drone-mounted radar systems. The work will involve both theoretical analysis and practical implementation of signal processing techniques used to generate high-quality radar images from measurements collected along the drone flight path. Objectives The objectives of this thesis/internship are as follows: Understanding the principles of radar sensing and SAR imaging. Implementing SAR image formation algorithms (e.g., Range-Doppler and Backprojection). Investigating motion compensation and phase error correction techniques. Evaluating image quality using experimental or simulated datasets. Required Background Applicants should have: A Master's-level background in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Physics, Computer Engineering, or a related field. Basic knowledge of radar systems. Familiarity with digital signal processing concepts such as FFT, filtering, and spectral analysis. Programming experience in Python or MATLAB. Preferred Skills The following skills are considered an asset: Knowledge of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). Experience with image processing or machine learning. What We Offer Hands-on experience with state-of-the-art radar sensing technologies. Exposure to real-world UAV-based radar measurements. Guidance from researchers working on advanced radar imaging and signal processing. Opportunity to contribute to scientific publications or conference presentations, depending on project outcomes. A challenging and interdisciplinary research environment at the intersection of radar, signal processing, and autonomous systems. Practical Information Type: Master Thesis / Internship Duration: 6-9 months Location: imec, Leuven, Belgium Start Date: Flexible How to Apply Please send your CV, academic transcript, and a short motivation letter highlighting your experience in radar, signal processing, programming, or related fields. Keywords: Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), UAV Radar, Drone Imaging, Signal Processing, Remote Sensing, Radar Imaging, Image Formation, Motion Compensation, Python, MATLAB. Type of internship : Master internship, PhD internship Duration : 6 months Required educational background : Electrotechnics/Electrical Engineering, Physics Supervising scientist(s) : For further information or for application, please contact Hamed Javadi ( Hamed.Javadi@imec.be ) and Adnan Al baba ( Adnan.Albaba@imec.be ) The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-261 . Mention this reference code in your application. Imec allowance will be provided for students studying at a non-Belgian university. Applications should include the following information: resume motivation current study Incomplete applications will not be considered