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Funded PhD in Sunlight-Backscatter Communication for Maintenance-Free Environmental Sensing University of Auckland in New Zealand
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Full funding availableCountry
New Zealand
University
University of Auckland

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About this position
Funded PhD opportunity in sunlight-backscatter communication for maintenance-free environmental sensing at the University of Auckland, based in Dunedin, New Zealand. The project sits in the School of Computer Science and is supervised by Dr Talia Xu in collaboration with Prof. Wen Hu (University of New South Wales).
This is a systems-level, full-stack PhD focused on building resilient communication for remote, off-grid environmental sensing where power is scarce and infrastructure is unavailable. The research combines electrical engineering, computer science, mechatronics, wireless communications, signal processing, optics, embedded firmware, simulation, and outdoor field experimentation.
The core idea is to communicate by reflecting and modulating sunlight already present in the environment, enabling ultra-low-power sensing devices that can operate in maintenance-free settings. Key challenges include maintaining reliable links under changing sunlight and cloud conditions, designing ultra-low-power wake-up and data exchange mechanisms, and validating performance through network modeling and real-world deployments.
The position is fully funded for three years. The scholarship provides a NZ$34,569 annual stipend, tuition fee coverage, and additional support for research travel, including conferences and collaborator visits. Both domestic and international applicants are welcome.
Ideal applicants will have a strong background in computer and electrical engineering, computer science, physics, or a related field, plus practical skills in low-power circuits, analog/digital design, embedded systems, communications, optics, or programming for modeling and data analysis. A hands-on mindset and interest in building and testing real-world systems are especially valued.
To apply, email Dr. Talia Xu with a 1-page statement of interest, CV, and academic transcript(s). Applications are accepted all year round.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
How to apply
Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.
More information can be found here
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