Industrial PhD Position on Intelligent Network-Management Solutions for Cell-Free 6G Networks (EMPOWER6G Doctoral Network) Industrial Systems Institute, ATHENA Research Centre in Greece

The Industrial Systems Institute (ISI), part of the ATHENA Research Centre in Greece, invites applications for a fully funded Industrial PhD position within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network EMPOWER6G. This prestigious opportunity is aimed at developing intelligent network-management solutions for next-generation cell-free (CF) 6G networks. The EMPOWER6G project brings together leading European institutions to create a breakthrough converged optical-wireless architecture, targeting ultra-high data rates (1 Tb/s), massive device deployments, and advanced user services such as holographic telepresence, AR/VR, digital twinning, and flying networks.

The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment at ISI, a leading R&D institute focused on ICT innovation for industrial and enterprise applications. The position offers a 3-year employment contract with a competitive Marie Curie fellowship salary, including all taxes and contributions. The doctoral candidate will also benefit from a secondment to another project partner for up to 6 months, gaining valuable international and industrial experience. Enrollment in a PhD program is included.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science/Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, or a related field, and demonstrate research excellence and strong communication skills. Candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Greece for more than 1 year in the past 3 years and must not already hold a PhD. Good English proficiency is required. The position is open to candidates of any nationality, in line with Marie Curie mobility rules.

Applications are open until 31 January 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the project and application portals. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in 6G networks and to develop advanced skills in a collaborative European setting.