EngD on the Design and Demonstration of Free-Space Optical Communication Systems

Introduction

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 an EngD positions in the field of experimental FSO communications.
These two positions are part of a collaborative research project between leading technology companies and two research groups at TU/e: the Signal Processing Systems (SPS) and the Electronic Systems (ES) group. The research in this EngD project will be performed in close collaboration with Cubiq Technologies and the two research groups. You will be a part of a team that consists of 1 EngD, and 2 PhDs. Successful candidate will work on a field demonstration of DSP algorithms for FSO communications.

Job Requirements

• A Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Strong background in digital signal processing.
• Background on error correcting codes is also highly desirable
• Proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB, Python, or C/C++.
• Experience in RTL design and FPGA prototyping using VHDL/Verilog and/or HLS tools is highly desirable
• 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).

Conditions of Employment

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 (€ 3,029).
• 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.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• 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.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Information and Communication Theory Lab (ICT Lab) at TU/e is a globally recognized research group focusing on information and communication theory, and its applications. At the ICT Lab, we study information processing in a broad sense. We focus on finding fundamental limits but also on the data processing techniques (often codes and digital signal processing algorithms) and architectures that aim at approaching these limits. Main areas of interest are source coding, channel coding, multi-user information theory, security, and machine learning. We typically use information-theoretical frameworks to model the scenarios under investigation. This allows us to find out what the optimal trade-offs are. The scenarios that we study often result from close interaction with industry. Curious to hear more about research at the ICT Lab? Please view this video.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiringmanagers Profs. Alex Alvarado (SPS Group) at [email protected] and Alexios Balatsoukas-Stimming (ES Group) at [email protected].

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. For More information about the research groups in this project please visit https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-groups/signal-processing-systems/
https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-groups/signal-processing-systems/ict-lab
https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-groups/electronic-systems
https://www.tue.nl/en/research/research-groups/electronic-systems/signal-processing-for-communications-lab

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact [email protected].

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include:

• A cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• A curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• Copies of relevant BSc and MSc diplomas and grade transcripts.
• Up to two written scientific reports (e.g., BSc/MSc thesis, traineeship report, or scientific paper) in any language (preferably in English)

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.