Understanding the radio frequency (RF) channel is essential for wireless communications. For high frequencies like millimetre-waves and Terahertz at which 5G and 6G will be operating, RF propagation channel is dominated by multiple reflections, scattering, diffraction, and atmospheric absorption. Hence, computationally inexpensive theoretical and empirical models cannot accurately predict the radio channel in such scenario and planning tools must rely on physics-based ray-tracing techniques. Such tools exist and have been widely used for microwaves wireless communication systems; however, they cannot be used for millimetre-wave and THz communications since their current implementation ignores scattering.

The PhD student (who will implement a full 3D ray-tracing method that incorporates the specific phenomena emerging above 100 GHz: scattering and atmospheric absorption. Other activities supporting the study will also be carried out when required. The PhD would suit an applicant with a good first degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics or Physics, having a good knowledge of coding and maths. We expect the PhD candidate to develop the expertise required to lead a computational research project, to train students, to interact with colleagues with different backgrounds (physics and engineering) and from different disciplines (i.e., machine learning, electromagnetism, radio-propagation).

Supervision team: Dr Miguel Navarro-Cia, Prof Costas Constantinou and Dr Stephen Hanham

For details of the funding available and advice on making your application, please contact: m.navarro-cia@bham.ac.uk

Funding

Applications are sought from highly motivated students graduating with first degree (2:1 or higher) in engineering, computer science, applied mathematics or physics (and preferably a Master degree) with good programming skills.

The funding is only available to UK/EU nationals with (pre-)settled status, and it will cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for 3.5 years at UKRI rates. International students will be considered if self-funded.