Doctoral Researcher in 6G Integrated Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Network Planning

This doctoral position focuses on advancing 6G wireless networks by integrating terrestrial infrastructure with non-terrestrial components such as drones and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The role involves extending an existing network planning tool to model LEO satellite and UAV communication, exposure, and energy efficiency. You will design AI-based optimization algorithms for integrated terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, ensuring optimal coverage, capacity, and energy performance. Additionally, the position includes developing a digital twin framework for dynamic, environment-aware replanning based on real-time sensor data. The research is conducted within the WAVES group at Ghent University/IMEC, contributing to both national and international projects.

• Extend the WAVES terrestrial propagation and network planning tool to incorporate non-terrestrial communication components (LEO satellites and UAVs).
• Develop models for LEO satellite and UAV communication links, including exposure and energy efficiency considerations.
• Design and implement AI-based algorithms to optimize the performance of integrated terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, focusing on coverage, capacity, and energy efficiency.
• Create a digital twin framework for dynamic, environment-aware replanning of combined terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks using real-time sensor data.
• Collaborate with national and international project partners to validate and refine the developed models and tools.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at conferences.
• Contribute to the development of open-source tools and datasets for the research community.
• Assist in supervising master's students and supporting undergraduate research projects.