Tampere University (TAU) and Tampere University of Applied Sciences together form Finland's second-largest multidisciplinary, inspiring, and impactful research and learning community. Our areas of expertise lie in technology, health, and society. Learn more at www.tuni.fi/en.

The Unit of Electrical Engineering at the Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences in Tampere University invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in the field of non-terrestrial and non-geostationary satellite communication networking.

Job Description:

The primary objective of this position is to generate new cutting-edge scientific knowledge for both academia and industry about the modelling and analysis of massive satellite communication constellations and other non-terrestrial wireless networks. The recruited Doctoral Researcher will work for a research project in the 6G Bridge program, where the project team applies and develops stochastic geometry tools to massive three-dimensional communication networks that emerge with 6G wireless systems and then creates a mathematical software toolbox for facilitating the application of the theoretical results in practice.

The beginning phase of the thesis work involves conducting a literature review on the new topic and preparing an individual doctoral research plan based on the findings, towards a technologically sound and scientifically innovative direction that is aligned with the general project plan. After that the specific goals for the main research work include:

• Developing stochastic/statistical models for three-dimensional wireless networks.
• Calculating analytical communication performance measures based on the models.
• Verifying the theoretical/analytical expressions with Matlab/Python simulations.
• Analyzing non-terrestrial and non-geostationary 6G communication systems.
• Participating in programming the software toolbox based on developed theory.
• Writing 2-3 scientific journal articles and 4-8 scientific conference papers.

Finally, the research articles are compiled and summarized into a doctoral dissertation, which is publicly defended towards the partial completion of the Doctor of Science in Technology degree. The doctoral education also includes coursework at the university and other goals may be agreed as applicable.

An example of an earlier doctoral thesis completed in this research area and in the same team can be found here: https://urn.fi/URN:ISBN:978-952-03-2812-2 (see also the press release of public defence)

As a Doctoral Researcher, you will collaborate with the supervising professor, a postdoctoral researcher in his team, partnering companies and international collaborators to conduct research in wireless communication networking and the applied probability mathematics of stochastic geometry. You will work independently to achieve the research goals outlined in the research plan with good support from the collaborators. Your responsibilities will include academic work, writing publications, communicating and networking with professionals in both academia and industry, participating in conferences and events, and teaching duties that may account for approximately 5% of your annual working hours.

Requirements:

Applicants should hold a relevant Master’s degree in wireless communications or a related field in science or engineering. A mathematically inquisitive mindset, problem-solving skills, independent thinking and the ability to work in a team are essential. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required. The motivation and ability to complete postgraduate studies and doctoral degree are also expected from a successful candidate.

As a prerequisite, the applicant must have good master-level understanding on wireless communications fundamentals and networking technologies as well as scientific writing skills. Since the topic is mathematically very challenging, the candidate is expected to have strong basic skills in statistical/applied mathematics (especially probability theory, analytic geometry and integral calculus), capability to learn mathematical concepts and abstract modelling quickly, as well as genuine interest in mastering the specific field of stochastic geometry in the work. Furthermore, the applicant needs to have some experience in Matlab or Python -based programming and must be willing to expand their Python skills. Previous experience in studying satellite networking and writing research papers are advantages.

The recruited candidate needs to apply for and be granted a study right for a doctoral degree in Doctoral Programme of Computing and Electrical Engineering.

Tampere University is a unique, multidisciplinary and boldly forward-looking, evolving community. Our values are openness, diversity, responsibility, courage, critical thinking, erudition/ Bildung, and learner-centredness. We hope that you can embrace these values and promote them in your work.

We Offer:

This position is for a fixed-term period of two (2) years, starting in January 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter. However, the end date of employment cannot be later than June 30, 2026. A six (6) month trial period applies to all new employees.

The salary will be determined based on the job requirements and the employee's performance, following the Finnish University Salary System. The position of a Doctoral Researcher is placed at level 2-4 of the job requirements scale, with a starting salary of approximately 2700€ per month. Salary increases are based on experience and progress in doctoral studies according to the unit’s incentive system.

We offer you the opportunity to join our dynamic and innovative international community. As a member of staff at Tampere University, you will enjoy a range of competitive benefits, such as a flexible work schedule, good facilities for teleworking, occupational healthcare services, a variety of affordable food and drink outlets across our campuses and a personal fund to spend on sports and cultural activities in your free time. Please read more about working at Tampere University. You can also find more information about us and working and living Tampere by watching our video: Tampere Higher Education Community - our academic playground

Tampere, located between two big lakes, is Finland’s second largest city area and the biggest inland city in the Nordic countries. The nature is close everywhere you turn your head in Tampere. This together with a strong tradition in industry make Tampere a unique environment for living and working. At present the region hosts a great deal of industry and service businesses, and the City of Tampere is a major hub for the Finnish ICT industry. For more information on Tampere, please check VisitTampere, Welcome to Tampere and International House Tampere.

Finland provides one of the most advanced and comprehensive social security in the world. It includes for example sickness benefits, various family benefits and a comprehensive healthcare system. For more information on Finland, please check InfoFinland and This is Finland.

How to Apply:

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system by the closing date which has been extended till December 10, 2023 (23:59 EET / 21:59 UTC). All application materials should be in English and attached in PDF format (please note that other kinds of file formats will not be accepted.)

Required documents are: 

• a letter of motivation (for a doctoral career and the position’s research, especially),
• description of research interests (including concrete research questions to address),
• curriculum vitae with a list of publications (if any, but showing only accepted/published papers),
• degree certificates and transcript of records for master's degree studies in original language. If original language is other than Finnish, Swedish or English, please provide an official translation in one of those languages.

For further information, please contact (but do not send any application materials directly to):
 Associate Professor Taneli Riihonen, taneli.riihonen@tuni.fi