Post-doctoral researcher – Wireless Communications
Cork, Munster, Ireland
Full Time
Communications
Experienced
Post-doctoral researcher – Wireless Communications
Contract Type: Full Time/Fixed Term (2 years approx.)
Role Description
The last decade has witnessed a surge in research, development and deployment of 5G networks and systems, estimated to become an $8 trillion business by 2030. Central to this is the research and development of radically new approaches towards communications that are expected to be of low latency, high speed and able to avail of flexible spectrum usage. The ability to take full advantage of flexible spectrum use is enabled by the capability of communications hardware to adapt itself in terms of operating frequency, bandwidth and radiation characteristics, in order to support new applications and services of forthcoming advanced 5G and 6G technologies. To address these challenges, major scientific breakthroughs in new materials are needed to create reconfigurable RF-to-sub-THz devices and RF front-end architectures.
Working under the auspices of a joint collaborative effort with Glasgow University, UK and funded by EPSRC-SFI, our vision is to pioneer the 6G communications field by by creating a THz-Reflective Intelligent Surface (RIS) with integrated switching and amplifying capability, thus revolutionizing the control and propagation of signals in wireless networks. As part of this wider effort and working collaboratively, the FUTURE RF and the Advanced Materials and Surfaces groups at Tyndall National Institute, are seeking to appoint a senior post-doctoral researcher tasked with the investigation and mm-wave and sub-THz characterization of new engineered materials and their ultimate demonstration in cutting-edge THz-Reflective Intelligent Surface (RIS). The new materials will form the basis for the creation of ultra-fast switches as required for the correct working of RIS.
The successful candidate will become part of the new and vibrant Wireless Communications Laboratory, be involved in cutting edge research and be exposed to the world’s leading wireless and advanced material experts. Furthermore, the successful candidate will have full access to world-class material processing capabilities, mm-wave to sub-THz characterization, antenna measurement and manufacturing facilities.
Key responsibilities
Funding Information
EPSRC-SFI Joint Funding of Research: https://www.sfi.ie/funding/funding-calls/epsrc-sfi-partnership/index.xml
For any informal queries, please contact Dr Senad Bulja.
Appointment will be on the Post-Doctorate researcher level (UCC Researcher salary scales), €45,847 - €52,339 per annum. Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with public sector pay policy.
Closing date for application is 1pm on Friday 6th June 2025
Contract Type: Full Time/Fixed Term (2 years approx.)
Role Description
The last decade has witnessed a surge in research, development and deployment of 5G networks and systems, estimated to become an $8 trillion business by 2030. Central to this is the research and development of radically new approaches towards communications that are expected to be of low latency, high speed and able to avail of flexible spectrum usage. The ability to take full advantage of flexible spectrum use is enabled by the capability of communications hardware to adapt itself in terms of operating frequency, bandwidth and radiation characteristics, in order to support new applications and services of forthcoming advanced 5G and 6G technologies. To address these challenges, major scientific breakthroughs in new materials are needed to create reconfigurable RF-to-sub-THz devices and RF front-end architectures.
Working under the auspices of a joint collaborative effort with Glasgow University, UK and funded by EPSRC-SFI, our vision is to pioneer the 6G communications field by by creating a THz-Reflective Intelligent Surface (RIS) with integrated switching and amplifying capability, thus revolutionizing the control and propagation of signals in wireless networks. As part of this wider effort and working collaboratively, the FUTURE RF and the Advanced Materials and Surfaces groups at Tyndall National Institute, are seeking to appoint a senior post-doctoral researcher tasked with the investigation and mm-wave and sub-THz characterization of new engineered materials and their ultimate demonstration in cutting-edge THz-Reflective Intelligent Surface (RIS). The new materials will form the basis for the creation of ultra-fast switches as required for the correct working of RIS.
The successful candidate will become part of the new and vibrant Wireless Communications Laboratory, be involved in cutting edge research and be exposed to the world’s leading wireless and advanced material experts. Furthermore, the successful candidate will have full access to world-class material processing capabilities, mm-wave to sub-THz characterization, antenna measurement and manufacturing facilities.
Key responsibilities
- Carry out ground-breaking and independent research in the area of DC-to-sub-THz frequencies (up to 400 GHz) characterization of engineered TMO materials.
- Design and test TMO based switches operating up to sub-THz frequencies by using a combination of electro-magnetic modelling and parameters of engineered TMO materials.
- Internal liaison with the Advanced Materials and Surfaces Group at Tyndall National Institute, in charge of engineering best-in-class TMO materials.
- Liaison with the project partner at Glasgow University on all project aspects, including, but not limited to switch integration into RIS, system performance measurements and field trials.
- Publish in highly esteemed and high impact IEEE journals and conferences.
- With guidance, work and provide help on collaborative research projects, undertaken by the Wireless Communications Laboratory.
- Progress reports, literature reviews and participation in conferences are to be expected.
- Engage in education and public outreach activities as required.
- Ensure compliance with Tyndall’s Quality Management System and uphold Health and Safety standards.
- Perform additional duties as reasonably required within the scope and level of the role.
- The candidate must have a PhD in a electronic engineering or a related discipline. In addition, the candidate is expected to have a substantial and proven track record in the area of mm-wave frequency antennas, antenna arrays, RF and Microwave circuits and general passive and active circuits, manifested in the publication and patent portfolios.
- Minimum of 2+ years of post-doctoral experience
- Substantial experience in the design and modelling of different RF/mm-wave devices (antennas, antenna arrays and filters)
- Excellent hands-on experience in device testing (antenna chamber and VNA) and RF/material characterization.
- Self-motivated, dynamic and collaborative.
- Strong communication and interactive skills.
- Evidence of entrepreneurial experience and creative skills/creativity
- Good mathematical skills and knowledge of mathematical modelling tools such as MATLAB.
- Good skill and knowledge in using CAD electromagnetic simulators, such as CST Studio Suite.
- Good understanding of broad wireless communication concepts – system level analyses, channel propagation models, multi-path propagation and cross-interference suppression and their influence on hardware design.
- Good understanding of the limits of relevant fabrication techniques, such as 3D printing, injection moulding and PCB etching and their influence on RF/mm-wave hardware.
Funding Information
EPSRC-SFI Joint Funding of Research: https://www.sfi.ie/funding/funding-calls/epsrc-sfi-partnership/index.xml
For any informal queries, please contact Dr Senad Bulja.
Appointment will be on the Post-Doctorate researcher level (UCC Researcher salary scales), €45,847 - €52,339 per annum. Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with public sector pay policy.
Closing date for application is 1pm on Friday 6th June 2025
Application Instructions
Please make sure to attach an up-to-date CV/Resume AND a brief motivation letter outlining how you meet the ‘Essential Criteria’ for this role.
Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.
The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.
Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.
At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.
Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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