PhD position in End-to-End Learning for Fiber-Optic Communication Systems Employing Multi-Core Fibres (MCFs) – DTU Electro

DTU Electro invites applications for a position as a PhD student in machine learning enabled fibre-optic communication systems employing multi-core fibres, within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie MATCH – Multicore fiber Applications and TeCHnologies doctoral training program. The position is focused on developing machine learning frameworks, in terms of constellation and pulse-shaping, as well as equalization for mitigating transmission impairments associated with data transmission though multi-core fibres. The focus will be on energy-efficient solutions. The start date is flexible, but preferably before 1 April 2025.

We seek a motivated, curious, and outgoing PhD candidate with a solid background in fiber-optics, machine learning and communication engineering. Experience with application of machine learning to communication systems and experimental work is a plus.

The project goal is to develop gradient based learning to realize transmitter pre-distortion and receiver post-distortion architectures that can enable distortion-free transmission through multi-core fibres. The project will cover both algorithm development as well as experimental implementations. Throughout the project, a close collaboration and research stays at University Institute of Lisbon, University of Stuttgart and University of Central Florida are envisioned.

We offer an opportunity to develop expertise in various domains, including but not limited to:

• Machine learning techniques for design of fiber-optic communication systems 
• Development of optical performance monitoring techniques based on machine learning 
• Realization of experimental procedures for test of the developed frameworks 
• Building fiber-optic transmission systems based on multi-core fibres
• Investigating transmission performance in practical test-beds 

Responsibilities and qualifications
As a PhD candidate at DTU, you will take part in an educational program of 30 ECTS tailored to your needs on technical subjects, as well as on the “soft skills” needed for a successful career either in industry or academia. 

Your tasks will include research into novel machine learning based methods for mitigation of impairments associated with using multi-core fibres as transmission medium. More specifically, the focus will be on minimizing the interference between the cores using energy-efficient signal processing-based solutions. The overall goal will be to maximize the information rate and the transmission distance given the energy-consumption constraint. Specifically, you will focus on the following areas:

• Gradient based learning for signal symbol and pulse shaping 
• Model-free reinforcement learning signal pre-distortion strategies 
• Extracting the relevant information from correlation matrices of multi-core fibres 
• Maintenance of the GitHub repository for the developed code 
• Organizing and managing joint experiments with the collaboration groups

Eligible candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their date of recruitment. 

You have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree and some international experience.

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 3 years. The start date is flexible, but preferably before 1 April 2025.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Professor Darko Zibar, [email protected] .

You can read more about DTU Electro at https://electro.dtu.dk/ .

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark .

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later 1 December 2024 (23:59 Danish time) . Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Electro employs more than 300 skilled researchers with competencies in electrical and photonics engineering. As a department we strive towards creating sustainable energy and a greener internet, as well as strengthening cyber security and health technology. Working with the industry and public organisations is one of our top priorities to find and implement new solutions to our society.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.