Preben E. Mogensen

This PhD project is part of Satcom4Defence at Aalborg University and focuses on resilient LEO satellite communication and 5G non-terrestrial networks (NTN) for defence-related and other mission-critical applications. The project addresses the technical challenges created by fast-moving satellites, dynamic coverage conditions, and vulnerabilities to interference, jamming, and electronic warfare. The doctoral researcher will work on methods to improve robustness and reliability across multiple layers of the system. Research themes include interference and jamming analysis, robust handover and mobility control between satellites and beams, beam selection and beam tracking, and system-level resilience when communication is disrupted or parts of the system fail. The work combines theoretical analysis, mathematical modelling, simulation, and, where possible, experimental validation on relevant hardware and software platforms. The position is hosted by the Institute for Electronic Systems in the Wireless Communication Networks section, with involvement in the Dependable Wireless Communications research group. The group works on communication solutions for defence, emergency response, and other critical-use cases, and collaborates with Danish and international research and industry partners. The section also provides access to an Internet of Things Living Lab and laboratory infrastructure supporting experimentation and prototyping in wireless communications. The PhD student will contribute to the project’s research output, present at international conferences and journals, and participate in teaching, supervision, PhD courses, and broader research activities in a highly collaborative environment.

The Department of Electronic Systems at Aalborg University is offering a PhD stipend in resilient communication for drone swarms, within the Wireless Communications study programme. The position starts September 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter, and lasts three years. The research focuses on advancing communication technologies for distributed aerial systems, particularly drone swarms operating in hostile and GNSS-denied environments. Conventional communication links and positioning support are unreliable in such scenarios, so the project aims to develop mesh protocols and swarm communication schemes that maintain coordination and information sharing under interference, jamming, dynamic topology changes, and strict constraints on cost, weight, and power. As a PhD student, you will design, analyse, and evaluate mesh networking solutions, integrating them with existing and emerging infrastructure-based systems, such as fifth generation mobile communication technologies. Your work will involve analytical modelling, simulation, emulation of large swarms, and experiments on real hardware when feasible. Collaboration is central: you will work with the Dependable Wireless Communication research group, the Visual Analysis and Perception Lab, and defence partners in Denmark and Ukraine, as well as relevant industry actors interested in dual-use drone technologies. You will contribute to proof-of-concept demonstrations and participate in joint scenarios where communication and perception algorithms are tested together. Teaching activities are part of the position, including supervision of project groups and assistance in courses related to wireless communication, networking, signal processing, or other areas. You will also engage in the Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design, attending PhD courses, seminars, and summer or winter schools. The department offers a stimulating environment with access to unique research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, and experimental platforms. The Wireless Communication Networks section, where you will be based, leads several defence research projects and collaborates closely with the Danish Armed Forces, the Ukrainian Electronic Warfare Systems Research Center, and industrial partners. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in wireless communication, telecommunications, electrical engineering, network engineering, or a related discipline. Essential skills include a solid grounding in wireless communication principles, familiarity with channel modelling, link budgets, interference, reliability, and network protocols. Programming and modelling skills in Matlab or Python are important, and experience with network simulators or radio hardware is beneficial. You should be comfortable working independently and collaboratively, and be able to communicate clearly in English. Willingness to travel for project meetings, summer schools, and international conferences is expected. Enrollment as a PhD student at the Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design is required, along with completion of PhD courses (30 ECTS), teaching experience, and an external research stay (3-6 months) during the PhD. Salary and terms of employment follow the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state (AC collective agreement). Aalborg University is internationally recognised for its engineering education and research, offering flexible working hours and the possibility for remote work by agreement. The university values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds. To apply, submit your application, CV, diplomas (bachelor's and master's degree including grades), and other relevant documents via Aalborg University's recruitment system. Access the application portal through the job advertisement link. Ensure your application addresses your qualifications and motivation for the position. All applicants will be informed about shortlisting after the deadline. For questions, contact Professor Preben E. Mogensen or HR Support.