PDRA in Non-Terrestrial Networks and Edge Computing - Durham
The Role
This post holder will be responsible to develop next generation non-terrestrial networking (NTN) technologies and demos, including satellite, UAV-based edge computing, integrated sensing and communications (ISAC), and their applications (particularly in securing and rural scenarios), and will be expected to support Dr. Zhuangkun Wei and Prof. Hongjian Sun. The post holder will proactively engage with academic, postdoctoral research and technical support colleagues, as well as students, within and external to the Department, including industry, to ensure that activities are undertaken to an appropriate standard.
Key responsibilities:
The post holder will work with the Communication and THz Node, and the Durham Smart Grid Laboratory. Currently, the group has over 20 researchers and is a leading research facility that brings together advanced simulation tools, realistic emulators, and innovative testbeds to revolutionise smart grid research and 6G communication s. The group is equipped with an extensive array of resources:
· UAVs for communication protocol, edge computing and control algorithm development;
· THz transceivers for high-frequency communication channel measurement and sensing;
· Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) and Solar & Wind Emulator for real-time simulation and analysis of power systems and renewable energy, and control strategy development ;
· BubbleRAN platform to boost ORAN research and test ORAN built-up;
· OPAL-RT, a powerful real-time simulation tool, enhances hardware-in-the-loop testing capabilities and expands the lab\\\'s capacity to validate equipment and control algorithms before deployment ;
· Smart meters and smart appliances, such as TVs, fridges, enable researchers to investigate demand-side management strategies, energy efficiency measures, and innovative energy-saving solutions ;
· High -performance computing systems to support specialized AI and LLM, and to empower the development and refinement of advanced algorithms for 6G communications, optimal grid management, renewable energy forecasting, and adaptive decision-making.