Tampere University invites applications for a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action (MSCA) Doctoral Candidate position in spatial-spectral cell-free networks at sub-THz frequencies. This opportunity is part of the EU-funded MSCA Doctoral Network ANCHOR, which brings together leading universities and industry partners to advance next-generation communication technologies. The research focuses on integrated circuits and signal processing for large-array transceivers, aiming to develop energy-efficient, high-performance wireless infrastructures for the future.

The successful candidate will investigate transmission and propagation characteristics of radio frequency (RF) resources at high carrier frequencies, propose and evaluate novel transceiving and scheduling schemes, and establish spatial-spectral transmission and channel models for various antenna types (e.g., phased arrays, leaky-wave antennas). The role involves developing signal transceiving, beamforming, channel estimation, and scheduling schemes for agile, user-centric cell-free networks, integrating energy-efficiency and hardware constraints into communications design, and performing system-level modelling and simulations using tools like MATLAB.

As part of the ANCHOR network, the doctoral candidate will benefit from interdisciplinary research, international secondments, and structured cross-sectoral training. A 12-month secondment at University College London (UCL) is included, providing exposure to world-leading research environments and fostering international collaboration. The candidate will complete all doctoral degree requirements at Tampere University, contribute to project deliverables, participate in network-wide training events, and disseminate results through scientific and professional channels.

The supervisory team includes Assoc. Prof. Bo Tan, Asst. Prof. Vishnu Unnikrishnan, Prof. Elena Simona Lohan, and Prof. Mikko Valkama, offering complementary expertise in theoretical innovation and practical impact. Secondments with Prof. Christos Masouros and Bo Tan at UCL further enhance the international research platform.

Applicants must not hold a PhD at recruitment and must have a relevant master’s degree by the employment start date (01.08.2026–31.12.2026). The MSCA mobility rule applies: candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Finland for more than 12 cumulative months in the 36 months before recruitment. Strong written and spoken English skills are essential, and formal English language requirements must be fulfilled by enrollment. Desired skills include knowledge of wireless communications, channel modelling, signal processing, array processing, numerical modelling (MATLAB/Python), detection & estimation, machine learning, optimization, and communication hardware.

The position is fully funded for 36 months under the MSCA framework, with an estimated gross monthly salary of €3,950 (no family allowance) or €4,450 (with family), annual holiday bonus, and salary increments under the Finnish collective labor agreement. The role is based at Tampere University’s Hervanta campus, a major Nordic technology hub with modern laboratories, advanced research infrastructure, and a collaborative academic community. Comprehensive support services and staff benefits, including occupational health care, flexible working arrangements, sports facilities, and campus restaurants, are provided.

Applications must be submitted through Tampere University’s online recruitment system by 7 April 2026. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, and contact details for referees. Additional supporting documents (e.g., proof of English proficiency, recommendation letters) may be included. For further information, contact Prof. Bo Tan or Prof. Mikko Valkama.

Finland offers a safe, stable society with comprehensive public healthcare and social security, making it an attractive destination for international researchers and their families. Tampere is Finland’s second-largest urban area, known for its vibrant innovation ecosystem and high quality of life.