PhD Study : Miniaturised Microwave and Millimetre-Wave Integrated Beamforming Arrays and Devices for Next-Generation Wireless Communications

Summary

The next-generation wireless communication systems and services will deliver much higher data rates, enhanced coverage and throughput, low energy consumption, and seamless radio connectivity. These innovative integrated modules, developed based on the state-of-the-art circuits, will enable the provision of reliable wireless communication links among the access points, in both the mobile and fixed propagation scenarios.

In this regard, this work aims to investigate the design and evaluation of a novel class of high-performance, lightweight, low-profile, and high-gain phased array multibeam antenna technologies, combining the elements of the dynamic control of beam steering and hybrid microwave and digital signal processing.

This research further involves the development of the high-dielectric smart materials and transformation electromagnetics, for the purpose of miniaturisation and compact system packaging, using the new additive manufacturing techniques. These fabrication methods will potentially decrease the production cost and time, enhance the dimensional accuracy, and enable the realisation of customised products.

Moreover, the implementation of geometrically complex structures via additive manufacturing techniques can improve the output performance of the electromagnetic and antenna systems. In addition, the controlled deposition of smart materials through 3D printing technologies, such as fused deposition modelling (FDM), further enables the engineering of material microstructures and therefore, programming of tuneable functionality in components. In this regard, the development of polymeric-based nanocomposites with desirable dielectric properties will be investigated. In addition, the impact of the material properties, composition, and processing conditions on the microstructure and macroscopic properties of the intended composites will be thoroughly taken into account.

Furthermore, a number of design and modelling stages will be conducted based on the lens- and/or circuit-centric beamformer devices, at both the microwave and millimetre-wave frequency bands, in order to implement a miniaturised integrated antenna submodule, capable of adaptive beam steering for the directional transmissions among the wireless terminals.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 65%
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living