Are you fascinated by the idea of high-speed space Internet, envisioned to be powered by more than 50000 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites expected to be launched within 10 years? Join us on this research project in collaboration with multiple tech companies to develop and demonstrate the next generation of free-space optical (FSO) communication systems for satellite communications.

Job Description

Satellite-based links are of key importance to provide ever-increasing data rates. Free-space optics is a technology that can help satisfy this demand thanks to the vast amounts of bandwidth available in the THz-regime. The Eindhoven University of Technology recognizes the crucial paradigm shift, from intensity-modulated to coherent transmission, necessary in next generation FSO communication systems to provide high throughputs. To address this challenge, we are excited to announce 2 EngD positions (P1 & P2) in the field of experimental FSO communications.

These two positions are part of a collaborative research project between leading technology companies (TNO, Aircision, Hyperion Technologies, ADVA Network Security, Luxquanta, and Cubiq Technologies) and two research groups at TU/e: the Signal Processing Systems (SPS) and the Electronic Systems (ES) group. The research in this project will be performed between these companies and research groups. You will be a part of a team that consists of 2 EngDs, 2 PhDs, and 1 postdoc. Successful candidates will work on experimental channel characterization (P1) and field demonstration (P2) for FSO communications.

The first EngD (P1) will produce parametric and nonparametric statistical models of realistic coherent FSO transmission scenarios working with Aircision, under close supervision of our collaborators from TNO and Hyperion. In Phase 1, an experimental testbed consisting of arbitrary waveform generators, FSO transponders and digital oscilloscopes will be used to collect experimental data under various conditions (e.g., clear weather, fog, rain), while in Phase 2 the experimental data will be used to fit parametric and nonparametric models.

The second EngD (P2) will develop an FSO platform to experimentally validate theoretical bounds and new signal processing algorithms developed by other personnel in the context of this project. These experiments will be performed using the FSO transmission equipment provided by our partners Aircision and Cubiq Technologies, as well as custom FPGA implementations of signal processing algorithms.

• A Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Strong background in digital signal processing and communication theory.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB, Python, or C/C++.
• A research-oriented attitude along with a result-focused mindset.
• Ability to work in a collaborative interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with industry.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).
• (P1) Some experience in statistical signal processing, inference, and/or machine learning techniques.
• (P2) Some experience in RTL design and FPGA prototyping using VHDL/Verilog and/or HLS tools.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an international setting with a close relationship to industry. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for two years.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale TOIO  (€2,618).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• To support you during your EngD and to prepare you for the rest of your career, you will have free access to a personal development program for EngD trainees.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.