PhD Position Unconventional Phased Array Topologies

This PhD position focuses on unconventional phased array topologies for future 6G wireless networks, satellite communications, and advanced radar platforms.

Job description

Future 6G wireless networks, satellite communications, and advanced radar platforms require antenna systems that simultaneously support wide bandwidths, large scan ranges, low power consumption, and high integration density. Conventional phased arrays face increasing challenges in scalability, efficiency, complexity, and cost, especially at millimeter-wave frequencies.

This PhD project explores unconventional antenna array topologies that combine sparse, clustered, and aperiodic phased-array feeds with lens-based electromagnetic structures. The intended scientific breakthrough is the development and experimental validation of novel hybrid array-lens topologies for next-generation wireless sensing and communication platforms. As a PhD candidate, you will investigate several innovative research directions, including:

• Element-level or subarray-level lens loading for hybrid radiation pattern synthesis.
• Sparse and aperiodic phased-array topologies integrated with electromagnetic lenses.
• Array-fed lens systems, including GRIN and other advanced lens architectures.
• Multifunctional and modular antenna concepts supporting communication and sensing.

While the primary focus is on millimeter-wave systems, concept validation and experimental prototyping at lower frequencies are also within scope. The research includes electromagnetic modeling, antenna synthesis, optimization, prototyping, and experimental validation using advanced measurement facilities and additive manufacturing technologies, including 3D-printing capabilities available through the Microelectronics department.

Microwave Sensing, Signals, and Systems

The Microwave Sensing, Signals and Systems (MS3) group is part of the Department of Microelectronics within the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science (EEMCS). MS3 specializes in research and education at the cutting edge of microwave systems, focusing on both fundamental and applied research. Leveraging electromagnetics as a core foundation, MS3’s work spans applications in wireless communications, safety, environmental monitoring, automotive radar, and healthcare technologies. As part of MS3, you’ll collaborate within a multidisciplinary team of researchers, including highly regarded professors in microwave and radar technology.

MS3 research facilities include Europe-leading laboratories with sophisticated radar setups like the PARSAX and MESEWI systems, and state-of-the-art equipment for indoor and outdoor sensing experiments and antenna measurements. This robust infrastructure enables students and researchers to pioneer solutions for real-world challenges in radar and microwave sensing.

Beyond technical training, MS3 encourages a collaborative research environment, promoting innovation in radar applications while fostering development through access to conferences and professional networking opportunities.

Job requirements

• MSc degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Microwave Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in electromagnetics, antennas, and microwave engineering.
• Knowledge of phased arrays, antenna synthesis, or computational electromagnetics is highly appreciated.
• Experience with electromagnetic simulation tools such as CST, HFSS, FEKO, or similar.
• Programming experience in MATLAB, Python, or similar environments.
• Interest in experimental prototyping and antenna measurements.
• Experience with additive manufacturing or RF hardware prototyping is a plus.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as in multidisciplinary research teams.

TU Delft as an employer

TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world-class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society.

Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines that reinforce each other and drive the technology used in daily life. The faculty supports ground-breaking research, educates innovative engineers, and offers excellent labs and facilities within a strong international environment.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract includes an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming performance requirements are met.

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

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel to help prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by candidates and takes place at the final stages of the selection process.