PhD in Network Architectures and Control for Tropospheric and Cell-Free Networks (ANCHOR)

This PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is part of the European Doctoral Network ‘ANCHOR’ and focuses on advancing network architectures and control for tropospheric and cell-free networks, with a strong emphasis on 6G and next-generation wireless communications. The project addresses the growing demands for bandwidth, reliability, energy efficiency, and sustainability in future mobile networks by integrating terrestrial and airborne network components using radio, THz, and optical communications. As a PhD candidate, you will work on defining scenarios and requirements for tropospheric links and networks, analyzing their impact on network protocols and control schemes, and developing optimization and resource allocation algorithms for hybrid fibre-FSO-RF communications. You will also augment software defined networking (SDN) controllers to integrate tropospheric networking and implement network resource optimization, followed by performance evaluation and KPI analysis. The expected outcomes include new network architectures, SDN controller plugins, and performance evaluations for tropospheric networks. You will be embedded in the Quantum & Terahertz Systems (QTS) team within the Electro-Optical Communications (ECO) group of the Department of Electrical Engineering at TU/e, collaborating with a dynamic team of researchers and benefiting from extensive laboratory facilities and the Centre for Wireless Technology (CWTe). The ANCHOR network offers comprehensive training, secondments at partner institutions, and broad networking opportunities across academia and industry. Applicants should have a master’s degree in Electrical or Communications Engineering or Applied Physics, with excellent grades and a research-oriented mindset. Experience in dynamic mobile network architectures, network management, and relevant protocols is advantageous. Candidates must be able to work in interdisciplinary and international teams, be willing to undertake secondments abroad, and meet the EU Mobility rules (not having resided in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the past 3 years). Proficiency in English at C1 level is required. The position offers a four-year full-time contract with a competitive salary (scale P: €3,059–€3,881 per month), year-end bonus, vacation pay, pension scheme, paid parental leave, and additional allowances for commuting, home working, and internet costs. International candidates benefit from a tax compensation scheme (30% facility) and support from the Staff Immigration Team. TU/e provides a vibrant, international research environment with high-quality training and career development opportunities. Applications must be submitted online and include a cover letter, CV with publications, and contact details for three references. The vacancy remains open until filled, with priority given to complete applications. For further information, contact Assistant Professor Simon Rommel ([email protected]).