A PhD position is available at Ghent University and imec for research on unified communication, localization, and sensing for autonomous underwater missions. The project focuses on developing hybrid signal processing approaches that combine localization, communication, and sensing using acoustic signals, with the goal of advancing underwater navigation and robotic swarm operations. The research will address challenges unique to underwater environments, such as multipath propagation, Doppler shifts, and signal attenuation, by designing novel acoustic modulation schemes and adaptive beamforming techniques. The candidate will work on both hardware and software aspects, including embedded system co-design for energy-efficient operation. The research group is multidisciplinary, with expertise in robotics, wireless communication, and embedded systems, and offers opportunities for collaboration with industry and defense partners. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in signal processing, communication systems, and embedded programming, with additional experience in PCB design and underwater acoustics considered a plus. The position is based in Ghent, Belgium, and offers the chance to contribute to high-impact research in marine robotics and environmental monitoring. Application instructions and further details are available via the provided links.

Ghent University, a top-ranked institution in Belgium, is offering a fully funded PhD position in the Department of Information Technology, specifically within the IDLab research group. The research will focus on joint wireless communication and localization using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) radio devices, targeting innovations in signal processing for embedded UWB platforms. The IDLab group is renowned for its work in connectivity, data science, and artificial intelligence, and collaborates extensively with academic and industry partners worldwide. The successful candidate will join the Intelligent Wireless Networking cluster, working on cutting-edge research that integrates communication, sensing, and localization into a unified system. The project aims to develop advanced signal processing techniques enabling a single UWB multi-antenna radio platform to perform high-precision localization, robust communication, and fine-grained radar sensing simultaneously. This approach reduces hardware complexity and enhances situational awareness in industrial, healthcare, and robotics applications. The candidate will design and implement adaptive algorithms that optimize radio configurations in real time, considering factors like obstacles, energy efficiency, and detection range. Experimental validation will be conducted using IDLab’s extensive testbed facilities, with opportunities to collaborate with colleagues and industry partners. The position offers a full-time doctoral fellowship for up to 48 months, with a competitive, tax-free salary and comprehensive staff benefits. Applicants must hold (or be close to completing) a Master’s degree in Computer Science Engineering, Information Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, and possess strong technical skills in wireless communication, signal processing, and embedded programming (C/C++ required). Experience with Bluetooth Low Energy or UWB is advantageous. The role requires independent work, analytical thinking, teamwork, and fluency in English. Application involves submitting a personal letter, CV, references, and diploma copy via the online form. The position is ideal for candidates seeking to advance research in wireless systems, embedded hardware, and real-world applications in a dynamic, international environment.