Current advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and network programmability – including software-defined networking, P4-programmable data-planes, and network functions virtualization – are opening up new opportunities in realizing the telecommunications industry’s quest for autonomous, self-healing networks. Contrary to legacy networking equipment, programmable networks have decoupled the control and data planes, thereby effectively allowing (virtual) services and network components to dynamically move or scale. However, programmability alone is insufficient to realize autonomous networking, as the question remains of how to program the network. In this project, through fine-grained network monitoring and AI techniques, a closed-loop system should be developed to provide the intelligence needed for autonomous networks.

This PhD project is part of NExTWORKx, a cooperation between TU Delft and KPN, and will be conducted within the Embedded and Networked Systems group (http://ens.ewi.tudelft.nl) at TU Delft.  

The successful candidate has obtained a master's degree with excellent marks in computer science, is proficient in networking and programming, has an affinity for artificial intelligence, and enjoys working in a multi-disciplinary project. In particular, experience in software-defined networking and P4 is considered to be an advantage. The candidate is a team player, able to cooperate with KPN and the other PhD candidates working on related research topics at TU Delft.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

TU Delft offers PhD-candidates a 4-year contract, with an official go/no go progress assessment after one year. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2395 per month in the first year to € 3061 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context. At TU Delft we embrace diversity and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three disciplines - electrical engineering, mathematics and computer science. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make future-proof. We are also working on a world in which humans and computers reinforce each other. We are mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. There is plenty of room here for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1,100 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.