Summary
Ghent University and imec’s IDLab research group are inviting applications for a fully funded, 4-year PhD position in the Intelligent Wireless Networking (i-WiNe) research cluster. This project focuses on investigating next-generation 6G cellular technologies by leveraging Agentic AI, Reinforcement Learning (RL), and Wireless Physical Layer Foundation Models to build resilient, proactive, and self-healing Radio Resource Management (RRM) within the Open-RAN (O-RAN) framework.
PhD Position in AI-Driven Resilient RAN Optimization for 6G and O-RAN Architectures
Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
| Position / Designation | PhD Position / Doctoral Fellow |
| Host Institution | Ghent University (IDLab / imec) |
| Faculty / Department | Faculty of Engineering and Architecture |
| Research Cluster | Intelligent Wireless Networking (i-WiNe) |
| Location | Ghent, Belgium |
| Contract Duration | Up to 48 months (Initial 12-month contract, extendable upon positive evaluation) |
| Funding / Salary | Full-time tax-free doctoral fellowship (100% net salary of an AAP member) + staff benefits |
| Application Deadline | Open until filled / Rolling review (Apply as soon as possible) |
Designation
- Doctoral Fellow (PhD Researcher)
Research Area
- 6G Wireless & Mobile Networks
- Open-RAN (O-RAN) Architectures
- Agentic AI & Reinforcement Learning (RL)
- Intelligent & Resilient Radio Resource Management (RRM)
- Cross-Technology Coordination (5G/6G TN/NTN Satellite & Wi-Fi)
- Anti-Jamming, Interference Mitigation & Network Security
Location
- Ghent, Belgium (IDLab, Ghent University – imec)
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Academic Background: Master’s degree (or graduating in a few months) in Computer Science Engineering, Information Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Technical Skills:
- Strong background in wireless/mobile networks and machine learning (specifically Reinforcement Learning or decision-making agents).
- Interest in network resilience, robust optimization, or wireless security (jamming mitigation, interference, network failures).
- Excellent coding skills with hands-on experience in Python and C++.
- Familiarity with network simulation tools (e.g., ns-3) or prototyping/testbed frameworks.
- Strong analytical and mathematical modeling skills.
- Languages: Fluent in English (speaking and writing, minimum CEFR C1 level).
- Soft Skills: High motivation, teamwork, and strong communication skills.
Scholarship Description & Benefits
- Full-Time Funding: 4-year fellowship (initially 12 months, extended up to 48 months upon positive evaluation).
- Tax-Free Grant: Fellowship amount equivalent to 100% of the net salary of an AAP member (tax-free grant under Belgian doctoral fellowship regulations).
- Employee Benefits: 36 days of annual leave plus public/bridge holidays, bicycle allowance, eco vouchers, and access to internal training and education.
- World-Class Infrastructure: Access to cutting-edge cellular/Wi-Fi testbeds and simulation platforms within an internationally recognized research environment.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the official IDLab portal with the following required documents (in PDF format):
- Motivation Letter (detailing your suitability and interest in the position).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Contact information for at least two academic/professional references.
- Copy of Diploma(s) (if already obtained).
- Transcripts of Study Records / Results.
Contacts for Inquiries:
- Prof. Adnan Shahid:
adnan.shahid@ugent.be - Prof. Ingrid Moerman:
ingrid.moerman@ugent.be - Dries Naudts:
dries.naudts@ugent.be - Dr. Vasilis Maglogiannis:
vasilis.maglogiannis@ugent.be
Last Date to Apply
- Open until filled (Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early application is strongly encouraged).
