Rahim Tafazolli

University of Surrey is accepting applications for a fully funded PhD studentship in multi-agent AI for software-defined traffic control in satellite networks . The project focuses on the integration of non-terrestrial networks (NTN) and terrestrial networks (TN) , especially 5G/6G mobile networks and satellite communication systems. The research explores how AI agents and machine learning can be used to manage network control through software-defined networking (SDN) APIs, dynamically adjust packet routing policies, and improve reliable content delivery and uninterrupted communication sessions in integrated satellite-mobile environments. The studentship is supervised by Dr Serdar Vural and Prof Rahim Tafazolli at the University of Surrey’s Institute for Communication Systems (ICS) , with access to Surrey’s Surrey Space Institute (SSI) and 6G data centre facilities. The project also offers opportunities to work with industry partners and to disseminate results in international conferences and journals. Funding includes home university fees, additional research training, travel funds, and a stipend at the UKRI standard rate (£21,805 for 2026/27). Eligibility : open to UK/home students only. The ideal applicant should have a strong background in computer networks and software programming, preferably Python and/or Go, with advantageous experience in SDN, AI/ML, cloud computing tools such as Kubernetes and Docker, Git-based development, mathematical modelling, network protocols, and systems design. Strong English technical writing and communication skills are expected. Deadline : 12 July 2026. Start date : 1 October 2026. Apply via the Information and Communication Systems PhD programme page and upload a document naming the project title and relevant supervisor instead of a research proposal.

University of Surrey’s 6G Innovation Centre (6GIC) is recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Generative Semantic and Token Communication Technologies for Future Wireless Networks . This is a research-intensive opportunity at the intersection of wireless communications , generative AI , semantic communications , and token communications (TokenCom) , with a focus on next-generation AI-native wireless systems. The role sits within the Institute for Communication Systems (ICS) , home of the 6GIC, one of Europe’s largest academic research institutes in ICT. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research on TokenCom and related future network technologies, working with a strong research team and academic staff supporting the programme. Research areas and keywords: wireless communication systems, 6G, semantic communications, token-based communications, generative AI, diffusion models, multimodal large language models, AI-native wireless networks. Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold a good honours PhD in wireless communications or AI/computer vision-related fields, with a strong publication record. Experience with state-of-the-art generative AI models and prior publications in top AI/CV venues or IEEE journals are preferred. Strong analytical skills, initiative, and the ability to collaborate effectively are expected. Funding and duration: the position is industry-funded , full-time, and fixed-term for 18 months , with the contract running up to September 2027 . How to apply: submit your application through the University of Surrey website with a CV and cover letter. Informal enquiries can be sent to Dr Mahdi Boloursaz Mashhadi at [email protected] . The vacancy page indicates online application via the university portal.