The University of Klagenfurt, located in the heart of the Alps-Adriatic region, offers a vibrant and internationally oriented research environment. The Department of Networked and Embedded Systems within the Faculty of Technical Sciences is seeking a Predoctoral University Assistant (PhD student) to join the Embedded Communication Systems Group, led by Professor Andrea Tonello. This group is renowned for its research in machine learning, signal and data processing, wireless and power line communications, electronics for smart and embedded systems, and robotics.

The successful candidate will conduct independent research tailored to their background and interests in one of three domains: machine learning (with applications to communication, energy, biomedical, or computer vision systems), communication systems and signal processing (including wireless and power line communications, communication and sensing), or electronic-based systems (such as circuits for communications, IoT, or robotics). The position also involves teaching in electrical and computer engineering, participation in departmental administration, student mentoring, and public relations activities.

Applicants must hold a Master’s or Diplom-Ingenieur degree in electrical engineering, information and communications engineering, computer engineering, or informatics by May 17, 2026. Required skills include fluency in English, experience in at least three relevant fields (such as machine learning, signal/data processing, communications theory, information theory, signals and systems theory, control theory, wireless communications, power line communications, automation and robotics, smart grids, biomedical systems), a strong foundation in engineering mathematics and statistics, and programming proficiency in languages such as C/C++, Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, GNU radio, VHDL, HFSS, CST, or ADS. Additional assets include knowledge of German, teamwork and communication skills, prior research contributions, and international experience. Candidates who already possess a subject-specific Doctoral degree or PhD are not eligible.

The position is a full-time contract (40 hours/week) for four years, with a minimum gross annual salary of €52,865.40 (€3,776.10 per month, paid 14 times per year). Previous relevant experience may be recognized. The university offers flexible working hours, remote options, a green campus accessible by public transport, equal opportunities, personal and professional development, and attractive benefits including company pension contributions and additional non-working days.

Current research projects in the group include mathematics and information theory of machine learning, applied ML in computer vision, energy systems, communication systems, bioengineering, robotics, power grid communications, sensing and diagnostics, radio propagation and sensing techniques for 6G, and UAV dynamics and navigation. Students are encouraged to publish in top-tier venues such as IEEE transactions and leading ML conferences (NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR), and collaborate with international partners in science and industry.

Applications must be submitted via the University of Klagenfurt Job Portal under reference code 129/25 by April 29, 2026. Candidates must provide proof of meeting the graduation requirement by May 17, 2026. For further information about the university as an employer, visit the provided links.