Project proposal

Smart Antenna Sensors

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) represents academic eminence in technology and the natural sciences as well as in other academic disciplines ranging from the social sciences, the arts, medicine, teacher education, architecture to fine art. Cross-disciplinary cooperation results in innovative breakthroughs and creative solutions with far-reaching social and economic impact.

We are looking for a Postdoc/Experienced Researcher candidate interested in applying for an MSCA Individual Fellowship at the Department of Manufacturing and Civil Engineering in Gjøvik.

The objective of the research work is to explores a new concept of sensing, where a single antenna performs active sensing of multiple physical parameters utilizing sensitive materials. It eliminates the conventional use of sensor ICs and processors, and their associated power consumptions. The approach, if successful, will significantly reduce the hardware complexity and power consumption of sensor devices (by at least 50%), creating new knowledge advancement. The project will create new interdisciplinary knowledge advancement on antenna, material science, signal processing, and machine learning to set the ground for new frontiers of power and hardware efficient antenna based multiparameter active sensing.

The position reports to Prof. Michael Cheffena at NTNU Gjøvik.

Main duties and responsibilities

Potential research topics for the position include, but are not limited to the following: 

• Multifrequency antenna design
• Development of sensitive sensing materials for deployment on the antenna surface.
• Measurement, analysis, and modeling of smart antenna sensors for sensing various physical parameters.  
• Design novel signal processing algorithms for extracting signal features for detection and tracking purposes.
• Develop algorithms for signal enhancement and noise reduction.
• Develop novel machine learning algorithms for remote signal detection and tracking. 

Qualification requirements

Eligibility criteria

• The researcher must, at the date of the MSCA-IF call deadline, possess a PhD Degree and/or an equivalent on minimum four years´ full-time research experience.
• The researcher must, at the date of the MSCA-IF call deadline not have conducted his/her main activity in the country of the beneficiary (Norway) for more than 12 of the last 36 months.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English language.

Other qualifications

The qualification requirement is completion of a PhD degree with a strong academic background in Electrical Engineering with specialization in antenna design or radio communications. To be considered for the position, applicants must have:

• PhD in antenna design or radio communications
• Strong academic credentials, written and spoken English proficiency.
• Excellent knowledge in mathematics. especially in signal processing.
• Good experience in antenna measurement, simulations, and analysis.
• Good knowledge and experience in the use of antenna simulation tools such as ANSYS.
• Strong programming skills and years of experience in using mathematical and numerical tools such as MATLAB.

Proficiency in English language written and communication skills is a prerequisite. The candidate is expected to be fluent in written and oral English language skills. Candidates from universities outside Scandinavia and English-speaking countries are kindly requested to document English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) or Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)).

• TOEFL: 600 (paper-based test), 92 (Internet-based test)
• IELTS: 6.5, with no section lower than 5.5 (only Academic IELTS test accepted)
• CAE/CPE: grade B or A.

Personal characteristics

• Creative
• Independent
• Hard working
• Team work

In the evaluation of which candidate is best qualified, selection will be conducted by the supervisor. Emphasis will be placed upon the academic in accordance with the supervisor and the project proposal.

We offer

• A designated supervisor with whom to prepare an application for the MSCA-IF call
• A two-day symposium with showcasing of expertise and best practices on how to apply to MSCA-IF
• A follow-up day with the supervisor and possible individual guidance by experts on MSCA-IF
• Administrative support up to the call deadline
• Travel and accommodation from the 13-15th of May 2020 will be covered by NTNU

Conditions

Appointment as post doc up to a maximum of 24 months at NTNU rests on the prerequisite of an approved application to the MSCA-IF call with deadline 9 September 2020. Feedback on said applications is expected early 2021.

General information

Working at NTNU

A good work environment is characterized by diversity. We encourage qualified candidates to apply, regardless of their gender, functional capacity or cultural background. Under the Freedom of Information Act (Offentleglova), information about the applicant may be made public even if the applicant has requested not to have their name entered on the list of applicants.

Questions about the call can be directed to: msca@horizon.ntnu.no or andreas.mollerlokken@ntnu.no

Questions about the position can be directed to prof. Michael Cheffena, e-mail michael.cheffena@ntnu.no

About the application:

Please submit your application electronically via jobbnorge.no with your CV, cover letter, diplomas and certificates that highlight the alignment of your application. In addition, the applicant myst describe a research project that will strengthen and complement the presented research (max 2 pages).

Please refer to the application number IV/04 when applying.

Publications and other academic works that the applicant would like to be considered in the evaluation must accompany the application. Joint works will be considered. If it is difficult to identify the individual applicant's contribution to joint works, the applicant must include a brief description of his or her contribution.

Application deadline: 09.03.2020

NTNU - knowledge for a better world

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) creates knowledge for a better world and solutions that can change everyday life.

Department of Manufacturing and Civil Engineering

Our profile of expertise can help to solve the world’s most important societal challenge: the development of sustainable solutions in industry and society. This profile includes research on modern industrial processes, use of new and recycled materials, new technological solutions and the application of new forms of organization and business models. The Department of Manufacturing and Civil Engineering is one of eight departments in the Faculty of Engineering.

Deadline 9th March 2020
Employer NTNU - Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Municipality Gjøvik
Scope Fulltime
Duration Project
Place of service NTNU Gjøvik