Reece Clothier

Reece Clothier is a PhD candidate at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and the Australian Research Centre for Aerospace Automation (ARCAA). In 2004, Reece graduated with first class honours from a BEng in Aerospace Avionics at QUT. His undergraduate thesis was on the development of an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) which provided him with hands on experience and a grass-roots level of appreciation for all aspects concerning the design and operation of small UASs. During his undergraduate studies he was a three times recipient of the Boeing award for top student in aviation studies, and on graduation was awarded the University Medal.

In 2005, Reece commenced his PhD in the risk management of UASs. Through his research, Reece has gained a comprehensive understanding of all aspects concerning the integration and regulation of UASs including policy, regulation and standards development processes.

As well as consulting to industry on issues of airspace management and reform, Reece has advised the Australian Defence Force on airworthiness and airspace integration issues for the AIR7000 Maritime UAS program. Currently, Reece is researching the Risk Management of UAS operations over inhabited areas. In conjunction with ARCAA Director Professor Rodney Walker, Reece is currently administering an Australian-wide industry consortium that is supporting the development of policy and regulations for UAS in Australia.

Current Research

• Aviation Systems Integration, Regulation and Operations

Research Areas

• Risk management with application to UAS operations over inhabited areas
• Development of risk assessment tools
• Aviation policy, regulations and standards development
• Airspace management
• Systems theory
• Evaluation of 3.5G communications networks for airborne applications

Research Supervisors

• Principal Supervisor: Prof. Rodney Walker
• Associate Supervisor: Dr Neale Fulton
• Associate Supervisor: A/Prof. Duncan Campbell

Available for download from QUT ePrints