The group of Radio Systems (RS) within the University of Twente (UT) has a vacancy for a Ph.D. student with the aim to define a novel framework for the indoor passive localization, identification and posture recognition of persons using multi-antenna systems embedded in rooms or buildings. Here “passive” means that the target persons do not need to carry or wear any device to be identified or recognized. Using radio signals (propagating electromagnetic waves) does not put constraints on the lighting conditions of environment and does not pose privacy concerns as image-based systems. For indoor scenarios like home or hospital, the background objects in addition to human can be diverse (in geometry and dielectric properties) and may present in mobility.

Environment-aware studies on (1) how radio waves interact with human body and background objects, as well as (2) how to identify human in space and recognize their posture, are called for, in order to achieve a wireless-assisted human-care. To this end, an optimized yet efficient system with multi-static multi-antenna arrays embedded in buildings/rooms will be designed. The system requirement including spatial and delay resolutions, coverage, sampling, etc., will be assessed with desired accuracy. Algorithms on localization, identification and posture recognition of persons will be devised in a multidisciplinary manner, i.e., hybrid use of radio signals, machine learning, offline and real-time optimization, other non-visual sensors.

This research theme is embarking at the right time for the future 6G communication technologies, where multi-antenna systems are used collaboratively and inclusively for not only advancing communication features but also benefiting localization and sensing possibilities with human “touch”.

• We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and self-driven researcher (D/F/M).
• You have, or will shortly acquire, a M.Sc. degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Mathematics.
• You have a technical background and interest in wireless networks, radio systems, antennas and radio propagation, electromagnetic waves, data analytics, machine learning or relevant fields.
• You think independently, develop creative and original work, and are a problem solver with excellent analytical and communication skills.
• You want to work in international and multi-disciplinary environments.
• You are proficient in English, both speaking and writing.
• You have hand-on publication, programming (e.g., Matlab, Python) and measurement skills.
  

Are you interested to be part of our team? Please send your application before June 1st 2020 via the "apply now" button and include:

• a cover letter (maximum 2 page A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, motivations to apply for this position;
• a detailed CV (resume) including a list of all courses attended and grades acquired, references and, if applicable, a publication list.
• a short description (maximum 1 page A4) of your MSc research.
• an assessment may be part of the selection procedure.

Additional information about this position can be acquired from Dr.ir. A.B.J. Kokkeler (a.b.j.kokkeler@utwente.nl) and Dr. Y. Miao (y.miao@utwente.nl).

We offer an interesting temporary research position in a dynamic and international environment, combining the benefits of academic research with a topic of high industrial relevance. We offer excellent working conditions, an exciting scientific environment, and a green and lively campus with lots of sports facilities and an international scientific community.

• You will be appointed on a fulltime PhD position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year.
• You will have a full status as an employee at the UT, including pension and health care benefits.
• Your salary will range from EUR 2.325,- (1st year) to EUR 2.972,- (4th year) per month, plus holiday allowance (8%) and end-of-year bonus (8.3%).
• You can make use of excellent facilities for professional and personal development like a program within the Twente Graduate School and a training program in which you and your supervisor will make up a plan for additional suitable education and supervision.
• You will receive good secondary conditions, in accordance with the collective labour agreement CAO-NU for Dutch universities.

The University of Twente. We stand for life sciences and technology. High tech and human touch. Education and research that matter. New technology which leads change, innovation and progress in society. The University of Twente is the only campus university of the Netherlands; divided over five faculties we provide more than fifty educational programmes. We have a strong focus on personal development and talented researchers are given scope for carrying out groundbreaking research.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Because of our diversity values we do particularly support women to apply.

The faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) comprises three disciplines that shape Information and Communication Technology. ICT is more than communication. In almost every product we use mathematics, electronics and computer technology and ICT now contributes to all of societies' activities. The faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. The research which enjoys a high profile both at home and internationally, has been accommodated in the multidisciplinary research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centra and Digital Society Institute.