The rapid evolution of communication networks, which are expected to further grow in complexity and scale, has significantly improved global connectivity. However, this growth also led to a substantial increase in energy consumption, contributing to global carbon emissions and raising environmental concerns.

As networks expand, the processes involved in data transmission require increasingly complex computations, resulting in higher energy usage. For example, routing protocols like the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) make routing decisions based on the fastest and most reliable network paths. However, this focus on performance raises the question of whether these paths are also sustainable. Similarly, modern security measures to protect against network attacks, often implemented in the cloud, require additional transmission and computational resources. It is questionable whether the energy cost of this additional processing justifies the enhanced security or whether more sustainable alternatives exist.

The goal of this project is to identify and quantify sustainability metrics of networking processes. This includes developing methods to assess the environmental impact of various components, such as routing protocols, measurement techniques, and security mechanisms. Additionally, the project aims to propose innovative solutions that balance the need for high-performance, secure communication with the imperative of reducing the carbon footprint of modern networks.

The candidate will work at the Design and Analysis of Communication Systems DACS-group at the University of Twente. The research will be conducted under the supervision of Dr. Antonia Affinito, Prof. dr. Anna Sperotto and Prof. dr. ir. Geert Heijenk.

• A Master's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or related discipline;
• Good communication skills and an excellent command of English;
• A strong computer networking background, coding skills and willingness to work with real-world deployments;
• Creative thinker with analytical and problem-solving abilities; Solid knowledge and understanding of networking fundamentals
• A high degree of responsibility and independence, while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other staff.

• As a PhD candidate at UT, you will be appointed to a full-time position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year, within a very stimulating and exciting scientific environment;
• The University offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues;
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU);
• You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 2.901,- (first year) to € 3.707,- (fourth year);
• There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme;
• The flexibility to work (partially) from home;
• A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A fulltime employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis.
• Free access to sports facilities on campus
• A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid);
• You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision;
• We encourage a high degree of responsibility and independence while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other staff.

Are you interested in being part of our team? Please submit your application before February 1, 2025, via the ‘Apply now’ button below and include:

• A motivational letter, including an explanation of your motivation for this PhD position and this project;
• A detailed CV (resume);
• An academic transcript of B.Sc. (if applicable) and M.Sc. education.