[CLOSED] Two Fully Funded PhD Scholarships at Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)

Two fully funded PhD positions in Wireless Networking (Wi-Fi), eXtended Reality (XR), and Machine Learning (ML) are open at Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) in Barcelona, Spain. These positions are supported by cutting-edge multidisciplinary research projects aimed at advancing knowledge and delivering innovative solutions in one of the following areas:

  • Next-Generation IEEE 802.11 Wi-Fi Networks and future wireless unlicensed communications: Multi-Access Point (Multi-AP) coordination, Smart and flexible spectrum management.
  • Enhancing Wi-Fi for eXtended Reality (XR) Applications: Enabling seamless XR streaming in multi-player and large-area environments, 
  • Integrating AI/ML Techniques in Wireless Networking and XR: XR content generation / semantic communications, leveraging semantic communication, Optimizing XR streaming performance, Enhancing Wi-Fi MAC and PHY layer mechanisms with AI-driven solutions.
  • Innovative Network Architectures: Facilitating inter-Wi-Fi network agreements through novel paradigms such as Distributed Ledger Technologies (DLTs), Supporting distributed and decentralized training and deployment of machine learning models.

These positions offer a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of wireless networking, immersive technologies, and AI/ML, contributing to transformative advancements in the field.

UPF ranks among the top young universities in the world. Our campus is located in the heart of Barcelona — Catalonia, Spain — and a short walk from the beach. Our department avails of powerful machines for numerical simulations and Machine Learning research, and provides strong career development mentoring.

The WN group collaborates with leading industry partners in the Wi-Fi and XR domains, offering opportunities for internships and research visits. 

REQUIREMENTS

MSc degree in telecommunications or related field; strong mathematical background and programming skills; fluent oral and written English; enthusiastic, hardworking, positive, and proactive person.

DUTIES

Conduct innovative research at the intersection of next-generation wireless networks, eXtended Reality applications and streaming protocols, and Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; publish results in first-tier journals and conferences, develop novel algorithms and solutions for relevant problems in the Wi-Fi domain, create datasets (e.g., using testbed equipment, simulators, generative AI, etc.), impact standardization; possibility to undertake industry internships and/or visit top research institutions.

HIRING PROCESS

Position available until filled. Starting September 2025 or earlier. Gross salary ~ 18K€-22K€/year. To apply: submit your CV, BSc/MSc academic transcripts, and a short cover letter to Prof. Boris Bellalta, e-mail [email protected], and Dr. Francesc Wilhelmi, e-mail [email protected].