This PhD opportunity at the University of Birmingham focuses on the research and development of reconfigurable and programmable microwave devices and antenna systems, leveraging new materials and smart structures. With the rapid expansion of wireless communication systems across land and space, there is a growing need for hardware that is not only reconfigurable and agile but also intelligent, capable of sensing and acting in response to dynamic deployment requirements. Examples include phased array antennas in base stations and satellites, which can autonomously steer and reshape their radiation beams, and reconfigurable intelligent surfaces engineered to control electromagnetic wave transmission and reflection on large structures. The project will address advanced high-frequency electromagnetic devices and systems, operating from GHz to THz frequencies, which are anticipated to play a key role in future wireless systems. The research will tackle the complexity of electromagnetic design, implementation, and control of tunable or reconfigurable elements, utilizing innovative materials and actuation techniques. The successful candidate will join the Emerging Device Technology (EDT) research lab, a leading group in communications and sensing technologies. Applicants are expected to be hands-on, participating in the full development cycle from concept formulation, microwave design, computer modelling, to prototyping and experimental verification. A strong foundation in electromagnetics is essential, and experience with microcontrollers and FPGA is considered advantageous. The position is open to highly motivated students with a first degree (2:1 or higher) in Electronic Engineering or Physics, and preferably a Master’s degree. The research environment offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaboration with experts in communications engineering and electronic engineering. Applications are accepted year-round, and interested candidates should prepare a CV, transcripts, and a statement of interest. For more information about the research group, visit the Emerging Device Technology lab .

This PhD opportunity at the University of Birmingham focuses on the development of advanced filters and antenna systems for New Space applications. As the space industry shifts toward higher frequencies and broader bandwidths, new challenges arise in the design, manufacturing, and integration of millimetre-wave filters and antenna systems. The project addresses the needs of high throughput telecommunication satellites transitioning to Q-band and beyond, as well as the integration of Satcom and terrestrial 5G services within Space-Air-Ground Integrated Networks. Students will explore integrated design approaches and develop innovative manufacturing and packaging solutions for filters and antenna systems. Emphasis will be placed on packaging and thermal management, moving beyond traditional design drivers. The research will involve hardware architecture evaluation, mathematical analysis, electromagnetic design, and experimental verification, with the goal of progressing from concept to prototype. Collaboration with advanced manufacturing tools and close work within the Emerging Device Technology (EDT) research lab are key aspects of the programme. Applicants should have a strong academic background in Electronic Engineering or Physics (2:1 or higher), and preferably a Master’s degree. Practical experience in microwave and antenna design is beneficial. The position is open for year-round applications and offers the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research in space hardware technologies. For more information about the research group, visit the EDT research lab . The official project listing can be found here .