Alexios Balatsoukas-Stimming

Eindhoven University of Technology, a leading institution in the Netherlands, is offering an EngD position focused on the design and demonstration of free-space optical (FSO) communication systems for satellite communications. This project is motivated by the rapid expansion of high-speed space Internet, with over 50,000 low Earth orbit satellites expected to be launched in the next decade. The research is a collaboration between the university, Cubiq Technologies, and two research groups: Signal Processing Systems (SPS) and Electronic Systems (ES). The successful candidate will join a team comprising 1 EngD and 2 PhD researchers, working on experimental FSO communications and field demonstrations of digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms. The project emphasizes a paradigm shift from intensity-modulated to coherent transmission to achieve higher data rates in satellite-based links, leveraging the vast bandwidth available in the THz regime. The position offers full-time employment for two years, with a competitive salary (scale TOIO, €3,029/month), year-end and vacation bonuses, pension scheme, paid parental leave, and access to personal development programs. Additional benefits include technical infrastructure, on-campus childcare and sports facilities, commuting and internet allowances, and support for international candidates through a Staff Immigration Team and tax compensation scheme. Applicants should have a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, with strong skills in digital signal processing, programming (MATLAB, Python, C/C++), and preferably experience in RTL design and FPGA prototyping (VHDL/Verilog/HLS). The role requires a research-oriented and collaborative mindset, with fluency in English (C1 level). The Department of Electrical Engineering at TU/e is renowned for its application-oriented research and strong industry connections, while the Information and Communication Theory Lab (ICT Lab) is globally recognized for its work in information theory, coding, and signal processing. Applications must be submitted online and include a cover letter, CV, diplomas, transcripts, and up to two scientific reports. The vacancy remains open until filled, with a final application deadline of December 14, 2025.

EngD/PhD opportunity at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in the area of free-space optical communications , signal processing , electrical engineering , and related computational and programming topics. The project is titled “EngD on the Design and Demonstration of Free-Space Optical Communication Systems” and focuses on next-generation satellite communication technologies, including coherent transmission, DSP algorithms, and field demonstrations for free-space optical (FSO) systems. The work is carried out in collaboration with industry partners, including Cubiq Technologies, and with two TU/e research groups: the Signal Processing Systems (SPS) group and the Electronic Systems (ES) group. Research interests mentioned in the post include free-space optical communications , optical communications , signal processing , electronics , electrical engineering , computational sciences , programming , error correcting codes , and FPGA/RTL prototyping . The successful candidate will contribute to a field demonstration of DSP algorithms for FSO communications and work in a team with 1 EngD and 2 PhD researchers. Eligibility highlights: a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; strong background in digital signal processing; desirable experience with error correcting codes; proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or C/C++; and highly desirable experience in RTL design and FPGA prototyping using VHDL/Verilog and/or HLS tools. Applicants should be research-oriented, collaborative, and fluent in English at C1 level. Funding and conditions: this is a paid full-time EngD position for two years. Salary is listed as €3,029 under the Dutch university collective agreement, with an 8.3% year-end bonus, 8% vacation pay, and additional benefits such as a personal development program, commuting/work-from-home/internet allowances, and access to campus facilities. International candidates may also benefit from immigration support and the 30% tax facility. Application window: the vacancy was published on 03 June 2026 and the deadline is 1 August 2026 at 23:59 CET . Applications must be submitted online through the TU/e vacancy portal. Contacts: Prof. Alex Alvarado ([email protected]) and Prof. Alexios Balatsoukas-Stimming ([email protected]).