Postdoc position “Optimizing the polarization purity of beamforming active array antennas for weather radar.”

The Postdoc position is part the prestigious PHARA (Phased Array Radar for Atmospheric Research) project, supported by the Dutch Research Council NWO. Within the PHARA project a team of experts will create a first-of-its-kind research infrastructure for atmospheric and weather sciences: a fast-scanning phased-array radar in Ku-band with polarization diversity. PHARA will enable to track continuously cloud volumes and measure microphysical processes directly with a minimum of assumptions.

The Position
In the rapidly evolving field of wireless communication and radar systems, the demand for highly efficient, adaptive, and precise antenna technologies has never been greater. Beamforming active array antennas, with their ability to dynamically steer and shape beams, are at the forefront of this innovation. However, achieving high polarization purity in these systems remains a significant challenge, especially while scanning, crucial for minimizing signal interference, enhancing communication reliability, and improving overall system performance. This PhD position offers the opportunity to dive deep into the complexities of antenna polarization, focusing on developing novel methods and design strategies to optimize polarization purity in active array antennas. By addressing these challenges, the candidate will contribute to the next generation of high-performance, active antenna systems, with applications spanning from advanced radar to next-generation wireless networks. In addition, the candidate will collaborate with other PhD students from the Electromagnetics (EM) group (antenna systems).

The high-level planning of the project is:

1. Review existing research on beamforming active array antennas, with a focus on polarization purity.
2. Analyse current techniques and technologies used to enhance polarization purity in active array antennas. Identify research gaps and define specific research objectives.
3. Create initial mathematical models to describe and predict polarization behaviour in array antennas.
4. Design conceptual models of active array antennas with a focus on polarization purity. Use simulation tools to verify and optimize the initial designs.
5. Fabricate prototype arrays and conduct experimental measurements to validate the simulation results and demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approaches.
6. Evaluate the potential for integration into existing communication and radar systems.

Applicants should have, or expect to receive, a PhD degree or equivalent in a relevant electrical engineering or applied physics discipline and should have more than three years of research experience. In addition to the formal qualifications, selection is also based on the performance of the candidates in other works (e.g. thesis and advanced level courses), as well as through interviews and assignments. Besides good subject knowledge, emphasis will be on creative thinking, motivation, ability to cooperate, initiative to work independently and personal suitability for research training. Previous experience in the area of radio propagation, antennas, electronics and signal processing as well as proficiency in using scientific and engineering software packages such as MATLAB, CST, ADS etc. are advantageous.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for 3 years.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 10 (min. € 4,060 max. € 5,331).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs on general skills, didactics and topics related to research and valorization.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A TU/e Postdoc Association that helps you to build a stronger and broader academic and personal network, and offers tailored support, training and workshops.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) and a compensation for moving expenses.