Open PhD and Postdoc Positions
| Duration | 3 years, with possible extension |
| Project Description |
Molecular communication (MC) is an emerging paradigm in communication engineering. Unlike conventional systems that encode information into electromagnetic waves (e.g., amplitude, frequency, phase), MC systems embed information in the properties of signaling molecules such as their type, number, and release timing. MC systems are expected to enable groundbreaking applications, including in biotechnology (sensing target substances), medicine (targeted drug delivery and disease monitoring), and industry (monitoring oil pipelines or chemical reactors), particularly in scenarios where electromagnetic communication is inefficient or not feasible. A network of nanomachines communicating via MC forms the foundation of the Internet of Bio-Nano-Things (IoBNT), allowing nanoscale devices to cooperate in performing complex tasks. In recent years, synthetic biologists have developed molecular agents capable of sensing their environment and altering their state in response to specific chemicals (e.g., tumor biomarkers). Although individually simple, our preliminary results demonstrate that a network of such agents can localize targets (e.g., tumors) within complex vessel networks (e.g., the cardiovascular system). However, the system-level capabilities and limitations of this technology remain largely unexplored. This PhD project will address this gap by developing the theoretical foundations for analyzing MC-based sensing and reporting systems. The work will span theoretical modeling, algorithm design, and proof-of-concept implementation (in collaboration with our interdisciplinary partners). |
| Research Environment | The project is embedded in a highly interdisciplinary context. While the core focus is on Communication Engineering, the candidate will gain exposure to relevant concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics. No prior knowledge in these fields is required; training opportunities, such as the course Synthetic Molecular Communications (Prof. Jamali), are available. |
| Requirements |
• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline • Strong knowledge of Probability and Statistics, Communication Engineering, and Signal Processing • Background in Machine Learning is an advantage • Proficiency in programming (e.g., MATLAB, C, Python) • Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team |
| Application Procedure | Please send your complete application (including your CV, transcripts, and a cover letter) via email. |
Open SHK/HiWi Positions
We offer SHK/HiWi positions in the fields of Molecular Communication, Radar Signal Processing, and Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces.
Open positions will be posted here. If no position is currently advertised, you are welcome to send us an email including your transcript of records. We will notify you as soon as a suitable opportunity becomes available.