Research Assistant / Associate in Coherent Optical Access Networks (Fixed Term)

A position exists, for a Research Assistant/Associate in the Department of Engineering, to work on Coherent Optical Access Networks, including both digital signal processing (DSP) and machine learning as part of the EPSRC projects "Platform Driving the Ultimate Connectivity (TITAN)" and "Transforming networks - building an intelligent optical infrastructure (TRANSNET)".

The post holder will be located in West Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.

Optical access networks are responsible for connecting users to the global internet irrespective of whether it is connected directly via fibre to the home (FTTH) or wirelessly via a mobile base station. In the last few years, a 50 Gbit/s passive optical network (PON) was standardised with research now focussing on 200 Gbit/s and beyond. For these high data rates the intensity modulation / direct detection techniques used in current PON systems is prohibitive requiring alternative approaches such as coherent transceivers. See HR7 for further details.

In addition to conducting research into DSP, the Research Assistant/Associate would explore the potential for machine learning (ML) in the optical access network. The focus of the research into ML for PON would be on reduced complexity approaches to avoid prohibitive power consumption.

The key responsibilities and duties are research into digital signal processing (DSP) and machine learning (ML) for optical access networks, liaising with project partners and the mentoring of research students.

Candidates should have knowledge of digital coherent transceivers and associated digital signal processing, and experience of applying machine learning algorithms to optical fibre communication systems. They should have a record of publishing high quality research in high quality journals and at the leading conferences in the field. In addition, they should be able to demonstrate the ability to collaborate broadly within the field and support and mentor research students.

Candidates should have or be close to completing a PhD degree in Engineering or a related scientific discipline. Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Ranges: Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966; Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 April 2026 in the first instance.