PhD Student Positions in 6G, Open/AI RAN, Wireless Systems, and Rural Broadband at Iowa State University

The Center for Wireless, Communities and Innovation (WiCI) at Iowa State University is seeking PhD students for research in advanced wireless technologies, including 6G, Open/AI RAN, and rural broadband. The center leads and participates in high-impact projects such as the $16M ARA PAWR project, $20M ICICLE AI Institute, $10M ArMORED, and $42M ACCoRD, offering students the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in wireless communications, networking, and their applications in agriculture automation, XR/metaverse, EdTech, and renewable energy. Key research areas include the development and operation of the ARA wireless living lab, which features state-of-the-art technologies such as free-space optical communications, mmWave, massive MIMO, LEO satellite communications, URLLC, and communications softwarization. Students will also engage in Open RAN R&D and collaborate with a broad ecosystem of public-private partners to advance the frontiers of wireless systems, edge/cloud computing, and rural broadband solutions. Iowa State University is a major U.S. research institution with a distinguished history in computing and electronics innovation. The ISU Research Park hosts a vibrant startup community and R&D branches of major companies, providing a dynamic environment for research and professional growth. The City of Ames offers an excellent quality of life for students. Applicants should have a strong background in electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields, with interests in wireless communications, AI, or rural broadband. The positions are funded through major research grants, with funding expected to cover tuition and provide a stipend. For more information and application instructions, visit the WiCI website or contact the center directly. Relevant research keywords: 6G, Open RAN, AI RAN, wireless systems, rural broadband, massive MIMO, edge computing, cloud computing, precision agriculture, XR, metaverse, EdTech, renewable energy, communications, networking.