2 PhD positions in SuperGPS Project in Netherlands | Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

The SuperGPS project is a joint project of the TU Delft together with the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, aimed at developing a hybrid optical-wireless system for accurate positioning, navigation, and network synchronisation. To this end, a tightly synchronised optical telecommunications infrastructure will be realised, which will serve as a backbone for a wireless enhanced terrestrial positioning system. The wireless link will use wideband radio signals, rather than today’s relatively narrowband GNSS signals.

Two PhD candidates will be appointed, one in the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science (EEMCS), and another in the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences (CEG), both at the TU Delft. They will work on wideband (UWB) radio propagation, signal design and processing, and on positioning algorithms and system layout. In close collaboration with fellow researchers from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the PhD candidates will build a prototype system with transmitters and receivers for UWB positioning, based on a tightly synchronised fibre-optic telecommunications network. The results of the project will have many practical applications, including smart highways and autonomously driving vehicles. The ultimate target of the project is a real-world test of the optical-wireless positioning system on the A270 highway near the Automotive Campus Helmond, in collaboration with the Dutch TNO institute. As a PhD candidate you will also spend part of your time assisting with teaching in the BSc and MSc programmes of the department.

Requirements

We are looking for enthusiastic candidates with an MSc degree in electrical engineering (focusing on telecommunications and signal processing), physics, mathematics, or geoscience. Candidates must have a good command of English, as well as a strong affinity for and competence in laboratory work (working with electronic measurement equipment and related hardware and software), programming skills (e.g. FPGA programming in VHDL), and a proven ability to find elegant, efficient and creative solutions to challenging problems.

Conditions of employment

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment; an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor; and a Doctoral Education Programme aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills. A