The SpecX MSCA Doctoral Network, coordinated by KU Leuven, offers 15 fully funded PhD positions in the field of wireless spectrum data research. Hosted by the renowned WaveCoRE research centre in the Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) at KU Leuven, this network brings together leading universities, research institutes, and industry partners across Europe. The focus is on large-scale spectrum analytics, wireless communication, and intelligent IoT connectivity, addressing the increasing demand for efficient radio spectrum use in the era of 5G, 6G, and massive IoT deployments. Each PhD position is dedicated to a specific research topic, ranging from low-power IoT sensing, AI-empowered distributed sensing, RF-sensing for ambient IoT, drone-hosted mobile spectrum sensing, anomaly analytics in geospatial spectrum data, edge resource analytics, 6G radio traffic analytics, integrated communication and sensing, network analytics for massive IoT, public protection and disaster relief network management, non-cooperative transmitter positioning, geo-statistical spectrum analysis, spectrum-aware wireless systems for safety-critical applications, AI-embedded E-field exposure assessment, to spectrum management for policy and business stakeholders. The research themes span radio frequency engineering, signal processing, embedded systems, machine learning, and networked communication. Doctoral researchers will benefit from joint supervision, network-wide training schools, and research visits (secondments) to both academic and industrial partners. The program offers a comprehensive training package, including research-specific and transferable skills courses, opportunities for internships, and active participation in workshops, conferences, and network-wide events. The international, multidisciplinary environment is designed to foster high-impact research and professional development. Applicants must hold a master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field, with exceptional grades and proficiency in English. A strong background in wireless communication is required, and international publication is considered a plus. Candidates must comply with the MSCA Early Stage Rule (within the first four years of research career, not yet awarded a doctoral degree) and the Mobility Rule (not having lived in the host country for more than 12 months in the previous 36 months). Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work in an international team are essential. The positions are funded for 36 months through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network, offering a competitive salary, additional family allowance (if applicable), and a dedicated budget for research and training costs. There is potential for additional funding depending on the host institution and national regulations. The program provides a unique opportunity to pursue a PhD at a leading European university within a collaborative, international network. To apply, candidates should visit the central application portal at https://specx-dn.eu/recruitment/application-form/ and select the position relevant to their interests and background. For further information, applicants may contact Mrs. Marisa Veloso Ferreira ([email protected]) or Prof. Hazem Sallouha ([email protected]). The application deadline is 30 January 2026. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a supportive and stimulating research environment for all doctoral candidates.

The e-Media Research Lab at KU Leuven, part of the Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT), offers a PhD position focused on distributed AI-driven embedded intelligence for ubiquitous sensing in the sky. The lab is renowned for its research in signal processing, data analytics, machine learning, and Human-Computer Interaction, with impactful contributions to healthcare, Industry 5.0, biomedical sensing, and education. This project leverages cutting-edge tinyML technologies to enhance intelligence and energy efficiency in resource-constrained devices. As climate change intensifies, clear-air turbulence in aviation and natural disasters are becoming more frequent, highlighting the need for improved weather forecasting and environmental monitoring. Current forecasts in the troposphere are limited to 10 days, and the mechanisms by which Earth's low altitudes (ELA) affect weather patterns are not fully understood. In-situ sensing in ELA can extend forecasts, improve ozone observation, and enhance cosmic radiation monitoring. The rapid development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) presents a promising solution for densifying ELA monitoring, but challenges remain in handling the vast, heterogeneous data and scaling control infrastructure for airborne sensors. This PhD project addresses these challenges by developing ultra-reliable spatiotemporal (4D) predictions using trustworthy, distributed AI intelligence across heterogeneous aerial nodes. The research will design an aerial platform with distributed computing in a mobile network of resource-constrained devices, incorporating uncertainty-aware AI models to maximize resource efficiency and trustworthiness. The second phase will focus on integrating sensing, computation, and communication for context-aware, self-organized aerial networks. Applicants should have a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Telecommunication Engineering, be ranked in the top 10% of their class, and possess strong grades. Essential skills include fluency in English, a solid background in AI-enabled signal processing and machine learning, and strong interpersonal abilities for teamwork in an international environment. Experience in wireless communication and networking fundamentals is a valuable asset. Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or similar) is recommended. The position offers a PhD scholarship for up to four years, with pre-doc support for non-EER applicants. KU Leuven provides a stimulating research environment, state-of-the-art laboratories, and opportunities for international collaboration. Successful candidates will earn a PhD from a highly ranked university and participate in conferences and workshops with top EU research teams. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, fostering an environment of open dialogue and respect. For accessibility or support questions, applicants are encouraged to reach out via email. To apply, submit your CV, motivation letter, transcripts, and proof of English proficiency through the KU Leuven online portal. For further information, contact Prof. dr. ir. Jona Beysens or Prof. dr. ir. Hazem Sallouha by email.