PhD Study : Intelligent Electromagnetic Surface-Based Microwave Beamformers

Summary

The next-generation wireless networks (5G+) will deliver higher data rates, enhanced coverage, low energy consumption, and seamless connectivity. Besides, these innovative solutions, based on the state-of-the-art subsystems, will enable the provision of reliable communication links among the access points, in both the mobile and fixed propagation environments. In this regard, the proposed work aims to investigate the design of a novel class of integrated radio frequency (RF) beamforming technology, combining the elements of the dynamic control of electromagnetic (EM) waves, using the computational techniques, and the hybrid microwave-digital beamformers.

The primary objective of this research is to implement the subsystems capable of adaptive RF beam steering for the directional transmissions among the wireless terminals, based on the hybrid implementation of the subsystems, such as the microwave beamformers and intelligent EM surfaces. Moreover, this project will incorporate a number of design stages, to realise the sub-6 GHz prototypes, able to demonstrate the feasibility of the surface-based microwave beamforming.

These stages will mainly include the novel numerical design, EM modelling, and performance evaluation, as well as the fabrication, measurement, and validation of the subsystems, according to the desired output EM characteristics. In particular, the core stages of this EM framework will include the design of the high-performance lens- or circuit-based microwave beamformers; development of the intelligent EM surfaces (also known as the programmable metasurfaces) as the RF front-end units; and the effective integration of the developed RF subsystems, to implement the surface-aided electronic beam steering modules.

In addition, the Ansys HFSS and MATLAB software will be employed for the analytical design and full-wave EM simulations, along with a number of in-house fabrication and measurement tools (e.g., R&S VNA) for the practical conduct of the experimental steps. Lastly, the scientific outcomes of this work are expected to be published in the leading peer-reviewed journals in the areas of microwaves, antennas, or wireless communications.

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