AI-Driven System and Link Design for Integrated Non-terrestrial Networks

Offer Description

Future 6G networks are expected to support immersive wireless sensing applications through the seamless integration of terrestrial and non‑terrestrial networks (NTN), including aerial platforms and satellite systems. These applications will rely on highly dynamic communication environments characterized by rapidly changing propagation conditions, user mobility, intermittent line‑of‑sight links, and heterogeneous radio access technologies. In such environments, conventional reactive mobility management and link adaptation mechanisms struggle to maintain reliable connectivity and quality of service. The lack of accurate, real‑time representations of the radio environment limits the ability of networks to anticipate connectivity disruptions and optimize resource allocation proactively.

This PhD project addresses these challenges through the development of predictive network intelligence for integrated terrestrial and NTN systems. In its first phase, the candidate will contribute to the development of a software‑defined radio‑based spectrum sensing experimental testbed that combines terrestrial and aerial measurement campaigns to collect large‑scale radio environment data. These measurements will support the creation of AI‑based Digital Twin models capable of virtualizing and forecasting the evolution of the radio‑electric environment. In the second phase, the candidate will investigate machine learning and AI‑driven algorithms for NTN channel prediction, enabling proactive mobility management across heterogeneous networks. Building upon these predictive capabilities, novel handover and modulation and coding scheme (MCS) adaptation strategies will be explored to improve service continuity for sensing and communication applications spanning ground, aerial, and satellite infrastructures.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Telecommunication Engineering.
• Ranked within the top 10% of their class in MSc and BSc, with exceptional grades.
• Strong communication skills and fluency in English.
• Solid background in wireless communication, signal processing, and networking fundamentals.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in an international team.
• Experience with software‑defined radio (SDR) systems (e.g., USRP, NI, LimeSDR, or similar) is a valuable addition.
• Hands‑on experience with PCB design is a plus.

Benefits

• PhD scholarship for up to four years, subject to positive intermediate evaluations (and up to one year of pre‑doc for non‑EER applicants).
• PhD title from a highly ranked university (#1 in Europe in terms of scientific innovation) after approximately four years of successful research.
• Thorough scientific education with the possibility of becoming a world‑class researcher.
• Affiliation with KU Leuven, one of the largest research universities in Europe.
• Opportunity to participate in international conferences, workshops, and collaborations with top EU research teams.
• State‑of‑the‑art laboratories and research environment at the intersection of theory and implementation.

For more information, please contact Prof. dr. ir. Hazem Sallouha (hazem.sallouha@kuleuven.be) or Mr. Rodney Martinez Alonso (rodney.martinezalonso@kuleuven.be).