PhD Position in Energy-Aware IoT Networks TU Wien in Austria

TU Wien is advertising a PhD position in Energy-Aware IoT Networks within the EU-funded IoT-ZERO project at the Institute of Telecommunications, Research Unit Wireless Communication. The project is coordinated by TU Wien and aims to enable Internet of Things devices to run on (close to) zero energy by combining energy harvesting, energy-aware networking, and operation across terrestrial and satellite systems.

The position is a 30-hours/week project assistant (prae-doc) role, initially limited to 36 months with the possibility of extension up to 4 years, and it is intended to lead to a doctoral degree. The planned start date is January 2027. The work is embedded in Work Package 1, which focuses on building the energy-aware foundation of the project.

Research topics include predictive lifecycle energy models for IoT devices and networks, with joint modelling of energy harvesting, storage, computation, and communication. The PhD will use methods such as stochastic modelling, machine learning, and numerical optimization to forecast lifetime and energy shortages, and to integrate these predictions into a digital twin for what-if analyses. Another part of the project addresses network-side energy observability and budgeting mechanisms that reduce signalling overhead and help devices sleep longer.

The role also involves simulation of communication systems using Python or Matlab, validation against measurement traces and proof-of-concept demonstrators, collaboration with academic and industrial partners across Europe, participation in research visits and project meetings, publication of results in international venues, and completion of a doctoral dissertation. There is also a teaching component, including supervision of bachelor and master students.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate has knowledge in communication networks, IoT, stochastic modelling, numerical optimization, or machine learning. Experience with energy-harvesting systems, cellular IoT, or digital twins is a plus. Very good English skills, independence, programming ability, teamwork, and an interest in research and teaching are emphasized.

Funding is provided through the EU Horizon Europe project, and the advert states an entry salary under the Austrian collective agreement (B1), currently EUR 2,832.10 gross/month for 30 hours/week, paid 14 times per year. The position also offers travel funding for conferences and research collaboration, as well as access to an attractive research environment in Vienna.

Application deadline: 7 December 2026, 23:59 (Europe/Vienna). Submit a single PDF including CV, motivation letter, and academic certificates to [email protected].