Marija Furdek

Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Optical Communications and Fiber Sensing, located in Gothenburg, Sweden. The position is based in the Division of Communications, Antenna, and Optical Networks within the Department of Electrical Engineering, and is part of the FORCE research center, which brings together experts in communications, photonics, and electronics to address challenges in optical communications through a cross-disciplinary approach. The research project explores the dual role of fiber-optic cables: while designed for data transmission, they can also serve as large-scale sensors of the physical environment. The project investigates both the opportunities and risks associated with fiber sensing, including infrastructure monitoring, environmental awareness, and unintended information leakage such as the detectability of human activity or speech-related vibrations. The aim is to develop new numerical models, advanced machine learning algorithms, and signal processing methods to understand what information can be inferred from optical communication signals, and to assess implications for privacy, security, and system design. The PhD student will be supervised by Assistant Professor Christian Häger, in collaboration with Professor Magnus Karlsson (IEEE & Optica Fellow), Professor Mats Viberg, and Associate Professor Marija Furdek. The research team offers a strong international network, with opportunities for research visits abroad (e.g., Germany, Netherlands, UK, USA). The position is fully funded for four years by a prestigious grant from the Swedish Research Council, with a starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (as of May 2025), full social benefits, health insurance, no tuition fees, and financial support for relocation. Teaching duties may extend the position up to five years. Applicants must hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or closely related fields. For students educated outside Sweden, a 4-year Bachelor's degree is accepted. A strong background in digital communications, signal processing, and machine learning is required, with excellent grades in core courses. Experience in implementing and simulating digital communication systems (e.g., Python or Matlab), and courses or experience in optical communication systems and/or fiber sensing are advantageous. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory. Swedish language skills are not required; optional Swedish courses are available. As a doctoral student at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits, including generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, and healthcare. The university is committed to gender balance and equality, with initiatives such as the GENIE project. The position requires physical presence throughout the study period, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date. To apply, prepare your application in English and attach all required documents as PDF files (CV, personal letter, transcripts, degree certificates, theses). Use the online application form via the provided link; do not send applications by email. Ensure your application is complete, as incomplete submissions will not be considered. References will be requested after the interview. The application deadline is February 28, 2026. For questions about the position, contact Assistant Professor Christian Häger at [email protected] (questions only; do not send application documents). Chalmers University of Technology is a leading European technical university, dedicated to scientific excellence and sustainable solutions for societal challenges. The university fosters an innovative spirit through global collaboration and entrepreneurship.

Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Resilient Optical Transport Networks within the Optical Networks group, Division of Communication Systems, Antennas and Optical Networks, Department of Electrical Engineering. The group is internationally recognized for its research in advanced wireless and optical technologies, focusing on sustainable and efficient communication infrastructure. The division is actively involved in education, thesis supervision, and participates in several major research centers at Chalmers. The research project addresses the security and resilience of optical communication networks, which are foundational to modern society. The project takes a multi-layer approach to network security, emphasizing SDN-controlled networks and vulnerabilities in virtualized environments. Key research activities include developing multi-layer risk models, creating risk mitigation tools for 5G infrastructure, applying AI and machine learning for real-time monitoring, and implementing intelligent policies to enhance the resilience of network services against fiber infrastructure breaches. The successful candidate will conduct high-impact research, publish in leading journals and conferences, and collaborate with prominent European universities and industry partners. Responsibilities also include developing novel approaches to model and enhance multi-layer network resilience, supervising master’s and/or PhD students, and potentially engaging in undergraduate or master’s level teaching. The position is designed to be meritorious for future roles in academia, industry, or the public sector. Applicants must hold a doctoral degree (or equivalent foreign degree) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a similar field by the time of employment. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, knowledge of optical communication networks, and a strong publication record are required. Experience in optical network modeling, machine learning, SDN, NFV, and TCP/IP protocols is highly valued. Excellent social and collaborative skills are essential. The position requires physical presence in Sweden for the full two-year contract, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date. Chalmers offers a dynamic and inspiring working environment in Gothenburg, Sweden, with generous employee benefits, including parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, and healthcare. The university is committed to gender equality and diversity, offering Swedish language courses for international staff. The application deadline is January 31, 2026. For further information, contact Associate Professor Marija Furdek at [email protected]. Apply via the Chalmers careers portal using the provided link. Incomplete applications and those sent by email will not be considered.