PhD Studentship: Adaptive Reconfigurable Intelligent Metasurfaces for 5G/6G Networks

We invite applications from enthusiastic and self-motivated individuals who are passionate about cutting-edge, multidisciplinary research in future telecommunications and sensing technologies.

Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) are being considered as one of the key components for future 5G and 6G millimeter-wave networks. RIS can offer a bespoke control to manipulate an incident electromagnetic wave and is envisioned to offer multiple simultaneous applications for integrated sensing, localisation, and communication. Although a lot of work has been done in developing static and reconfigurable metasurfaces, RIS still faces several issues such as low bandwidth, out-of-band interference, energy efficiency, prone to damage, cost, and complexity.

This PhD project seeks to develop next-generation RIS with enhanced reliability, multifunctionality, and intelligent adaptability. Leveraging machine learning-based optimisation techniques, the research will contribute to creating smart radio environments tailored to the demands of future networks.

We are looking for candidates with a strong background in electromagnetics, RF design (ideally including metasurfaces, RIS, or antenna arrays), mathematics, electronic circuits, computer programming, and machine learning. 

The ideal candidate will have a working knowledge of key software tools such as CST Microwave Studio, Ansys HFSS, and MATLAB for system-based simulations; hands-on experience with fabrication and measurements (operating vector network analyser, anechoic chamber, etc.); and implementing ML-algorithms on 2D-matrix problems. 

Loughborough University has an extensive RF facility including an anechoic chamber, a semi-anechoic chamber for RIS measurements, network analysers, and material characterisation. The candidate will join a vibrant group of researchers and will receive the necessary training to undertake this research. 

Entry requirements:

• Applicants must have either a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) or a strong merit or distinction in Electrical Engineering, Physics or related topics. Expertise in antennas, metasurfaces and machine learning is preferred.
• Applicants should meet the minimum English language qualifications.
• Applicants will need to submit a research proposal (not more than 3 pages), CV, and an example of written work (paper, project report, etc.) to be considered for an interview.

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

How to Apply:

Applications should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button. Under programme name, select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering/Electronic, Electrical & Systems Engineering’ and quote the advert reference number FP-AB-2024 in your application.  

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit your CV and the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. 

Funding Details

Additional Funding Information

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £19,237 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fee.

Advert information