Project
Low Earth orbit (LEO) mega constellations are gaining significant momentum, positioning themselves as a unique and timely enabler for global next-generation communication networks. Such mega constellations are expected to play a vital role in future 6G networks, offering cost-effective, high-capacity connectivity with seamless zero-gap global coverage, complementing terrestrial 6G infrastructure. This dynamic and mobile non-terrestrial infrastructure promises enhanced reliability, availability, and responsiveness. However, it poses several open fundamental challenges, such as designing low-latency inter-satellite links (ISLs) for network coordination and synchronization and optimizing the network resources to ensure reliable communication and localization services. Addressing these two challenges will be the main focus of this PhD project.
In the first phase, the PhD student will focus on the physical and MAC layers of LEO mega-constellations, aiming for a low-latency network coordination approach. AI-driven solutions, such as graph-neural networks, will be explored and benchmarked against state-of-the-art network coordination and synchronization solutions for LEO mega-constellations. In the second phase, resource allocation in a coordinated and synchronized cluster of LEO satellites will be optimized, aiming for reliable broadband connectivity and accurate user localization. This project consists of both analytical and experimental work, where the proposed designs and algorithms will be carefully modeled, characterized and implemented in our state-of-the-art lab.
Profile
We are looking for highly motivated PhD researchers with an interest in communication systems design. The applicant should
- have a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Telecommunication Engineering,
- be ranked within the top 10% of their class in MSc and BSc, and have exceptional grades,
- have strong communication skills and is fluent in English,
- have a solid background in wireless communication and networking fundamentals,
- have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work in an international team.
- Experience in AI-enabled signal processing and machine learning algorithms is a valuable addition.
Offer
- A PhD scholarship for up to four years (subject to positive intermediate evaluations). If the applicant is non-EEA, up to 1 year of pre-doc will also be supported.
- An exciting research environment, working on the intersection between theory and implementation in a very multi-disciplinary research environment.
- A PhD title from a highly ranked university (#1 in Europe in terms of scientific innovation) after approximately 4 years of successful research.
- A thorough scientific education, the possibility of becoming a world-class researcher.
- A KU Leuven affiliation, one of the largest research universities in Europe.
- You will be working on a state-of-the-art topic with state-of-the-art laboratories.
- The possibility to participate in international conferences, workshops and collaborations with top EU research teams.
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. Dr. Ir. Hazem Sallouha, tel.: +32 16 37 62 43, email: hazem.sallouha@kuleuven.be or of Prof. Dr. Ir. Sofie Pollin, tel.: +32 16 32 10 51, email: sofie.pollin@kuleuven.be.
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