We invite applications from enthusiastic and self-motivated individuals who are passionate about cutting-edge, multidisciplinary research in future telecommunications and sensing technologies.

Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) are being considered as one of the key components for future 5G and 6G millimeter-wave networks. RIS can offer a bespoke control to manipulate an incident electromagnetic wave and is envisioned to offer multiple simultaneous applications for integrated sensing, localisation, and communication. Although a lot of work has been done in developing static and reconfigurable metasurfaces, RIS still faces several issues such as low bandwidth, out-of-band interference, energy efficiency, prone to damage, cost, and complexity.

This PhD project seeks to develop next-generation RIS with enhanced reliability, multifunctionality, and intelligent adaptability. Leveraging machine learning-based optimisation techniques, the research will contribute to creating smart radio environments tailored to the demands of future networks.

We are looking for candidates with a strong background in electromagnetics, RF design (ideally including metasurfaces, RIS, or antenna arrays), mathematics, electronic circuits, computer programming, and machine learning.

The ideal candidate will have a working knowledge of key software tools such as CST Microwave Studio, Ansys HFSS, and MATLAB for system-based simulations; hands-on experience with fabrication and measurements (operating vector network analyser, anechoic chamber, etc.); and implementing ML-algorithms on 2D-matrix problems.

Loughborough University has an extensive RF facility including an anechoic chamber, a semi-anechoic chamber for RIS measurements, network analysers, and material characterisation. The candidate will join a vibrant group of researchers and will receive the necessary training to undertake this research.

The School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering has seen 100% of its research impact rated as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' (REF, 2021).

Supervisors

• Primary supervisor: Dr Aakash Bansal
• Secondary supervisor: Prof Will Whittow

Entry requirements

• Applicants must have either a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) or a strong merit or distinction in Electrical Engineering, Physics or related topics. Expertise in antennas, metasurfaces and machine learning is preferred.
• Applicants should meet the minimum English language qualifications.
• Applicants will need to submit a research proposal (not more than 3 pages), CV, and an example of written work (paper, project report, etc.) to be considered for an interview.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website .

Fees and funding

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fee.

How to apply

Applications should be made online . Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering/Electronic, Electrical & Systems Engineering’ and quote the advert reference number FP-AB-2024 in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit your CV and the minimum supporting documents .

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.

*Please note, only the candidates with a research proposal, CV and an example of your written work (paper, project report, etc.) will be considered for an online interview. Your research proposal should not be more than 3 pages. All the applications should go through the university application portal. In case of any queries, please feel free to reach out to the primary supervisor at [email protected] .

Apply now