PhD in Ka-band planar and active antenna design for SATCOM applications

Fruitful collaboration among university and industrial partners in different segments of the satellite communication value chain will foster novel technological solutions in the following research disciplines: RF hardware-DSP controlled beam former co-design for optimized system performance, low-cost and high efficiency phase controlled array antenna modules for satellite user terminals. Highly innovative and industry driven research will allow the working PhD students develop a comprehensive set of theoretical and practical skills relevant for innovation and long-term employability in the rapidly growing sector of satellite communication area. It is highly likely that the candidate will be employed directly at Satcube AB or other companies in relevant sector and will have the opportunity to lead industrial projects after successful completion of the PhD studies at Chalmers.

Information about the project
The PhD project will be a collaboration among Chalmers University of Technology, Uppsala University and the industrial partner Satcube AB. The PhD studies will be partially funded by Satcube AB, and hence the research will be carried out in close collaboration with Satcube's R&D staff. The candidate will have the opportunity to spend approximately half of her/his time at Chalmers' and Satcube's facilities respectively, in order to ensure that the candidate gains adequate insights into the application-specific antenna requirements.

The position will be hosted by the Antenna Systems group (at the Electrical Engineering department), but will also involve a close collaboration with the Microwave Electronics Laboratory (at the department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience).

Major responsibilities
· Electromagnetic design of highly efficient dual circular polarized, dual band, low-profile active antenna array for the 20-30GHz frequency band. The antenna should be phase controlled in one dimension, to enable electronic steering of the beam in one plane to track satellites in orbit.
· Design and selection of a suitable array topology which will allow simple feeding geometry with minimum losses. Also design of the suitable array which allows easy signal routing and feeding from the active beam former chips for dual polarized active array.
· Analysis of the integration of active beam former components. Each antenna sub-array needs to be fed with an independent phase and amplitude from a commodity beam former IC channel. The task involves analyzing the interconnect between the active components and the antenna sub-array, including changes in the active scanning impedance.
· Finally building a demonstrator of the proposed antenna array solution evaluation of the performance of the array.
· Responsibilities as PhD student is also to pursue own doctoral studies. You are expected to develop your own scientific concepts and communicate the results of your research verbally and in writing. The position generally also includes teaching on Chalmers' undergraduate level or performing other duties corresponding to 10-15% of working hours.

Qualifications
Applicants should have, or expect to receive, a Master of Science degree or equivalent in a relevant electrical engineering or applied physics discipline. 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 Electromagnetic fields and Antenna theory as well as proficiency in using Fullwave solvers such as HFSS and CST is considered to be an advantage.

The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses.

Contract terms
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a minimum of 4 years.

We offer
Chalmers offers a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. 
Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.


Application deadline: 28 February 2022.
Learn more and apply on: https://www.chalmers.se/sv/om-chalmers/Arbeta-pa-Chalmers/lediga-tjanster/Sidor/default.aspx?rmpage=job&rmjob=10188&rmlang=SE 





*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 
   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our six Areas of Advance; Energy, Health Engineering, Information and Communication Technology, Materials Science, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!