UNI.LU SNT – OPTICAL SATELLITE COMMS (PHD)

University of Luxembourg is an international research university with distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character. The University was founded in 2003 and counts more than 6,700 students and more than 2,000 employees from around the world. The University’s faculties and interdisciplinary centres focus on research in the areas of Computer Science and ICT Security, Materials Science, European and International Law, Finance and Financial Innovation, Education, Contemporary and Digital History. In addition, the University focuses on cross-disciplinary research in the areas of Data Modelling and Simulation as well as Health and System Biomedicine. Times Higher Education ranks the University of Luxembourg #3 globally for its “international outlook,” #20 in the Young University Ranking 2021, and among the top 250 universities worldwide. Notably, in Telecommunication Engineering, the University of Luxembourg is ranked among the top 75 universities globally, according to the Shanghai Ranking 2024. SnT is a leading international research and innovation center in secure, reliable and trustworthy ICT systems and services. We play an instrumental role in Luxembourg by fueling innovation through research partnerships with industry, boosting R&D investments leading to economic growth, and attracting highly qualified talent.

The SigCom research group of SnT, headed by Prof. Symeon Chatzinotas, focuses on wireless/satellite communications and networking. The research areas focus on the formulation, modeling, design, and analysis of future 6G communication networks that are capable of supporting new services for digital ecosystems. Use cases of interest include Security and Efficient Wireless Communication Solutions, IoT verticals, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, Integrated Satellite-Space-Terrestrial Networks, Quantum Communications and Key Distribution, Spectrum Management and Coexistence, Tactile Internet, Earth Observation, and Autonomous Transportation. As far as technical enablers are concerned, we leverage expertise on advanced technologies including semantic/task-oriented data processing, signal processing, network resource management to improve the performance of the future wireless communication systems. Finally, due to the large-scale nature, complexity, and heterogeneity of 6G networks, for their analysis and optimization, we use tools such as artificial intelligence/machine learning, graph theory and graph-signal processing, and convex/non-convex optimization. Furthermore, our activities are experimentally driven and supported by the COMMLab, the 6GSPACE Lab, the HybridNetLab, the QCILab, our SW Simulators, and our Facilities. For further information, you may refer to

We’re looking for people driven by excellence, excited about innovation, and looking to make a difference. If this sounds like you, you’ve come to the right place!

Your Role

The successful candidate will join the SIGCOM Research Group, led by Prof. Symeon Chatzinotas. Additionally, this industrial project will be conducted in partnership with the Odysseus Space company as part of the Simulator development for the optical slant path program.

This PhD project aims to develop an analysis tool for the optical ground-to-satellite links and vice versa. In this context, key performance indicators of various modulation types will be analyzed considering the variations in the zenith angle and the atmospheric conditions. The project aims to develop a simulator to combine all the ;

The position holder will be required to perform the following tasks:

·       Carrying out research in the predefined areas

·       Disseminating results through scientific publications

·     Communicate and interact with the partner’s team to collect requirements and report results

·       Implement and open-source proof-of-concept software tools

·       Collaborate with other researchers of the program

For further information, please contact Dr. Mert Bayraktar ()

Your Profile

Qualification: The candidate should possess a MSc. Degree or equivalent in Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields.

Experience: The ideal candidate should have some knowledge and experience in a number of the following topics:

·       Turbulence modeling with wave propagation simulations

·       Modulations used in optical wireless communications

·       Data Analysis and Management

·       Implement and open-source proof-of-concept software tools

·       Machine learning is a plus

Strong analytical and programming skills are required (Python, Matlab, and C/C++). Prior proven experience in data-driven innovation projects is an asset as well as having prior research publications in high-ranking journals or in international conference proceedings. Most importantly, you should be curiosity driven and willing to constantly learn new things!

Language Skills: Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English are required.

We offer

·       Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the “University of the Greater Region” (UniGR)

·       A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure

·       A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply:

Applications should be submitted online and include:

·       Full CV, including:

o  For each degree received or currently enrolled in, the degree, institution name, city, and country, and date (or expected date) of graduation

o  Title and short summary of final thesis

o  List of publications (if any)

o  Name, affiliation, and contact details of at least two recommenders

o  If available, link to GitHub repository including completed open-source projects

·       Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken

·    Cover letter with motivations and topics of particular interest to the candidate (500 words)

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Ref: R-STR-5100-00-Z
• Fixed Term Contract 36 months (CDD), (extendable up to 48 months if required)
• Work Hours: Full-time 40 hrs/week
• Number of positions: 1
• Employee and student status

The yearly gross salary for every PhD at the UL is EUR 40952 (full time).