Acoustic RF filters for Next-Generation Wireless Communications
PhD - Leuven | Just now
Imec is one of the world's leading R&D instututes in nanoelectronics and digital technologies. Researchers at imec work on technologies that make wireless communication faster, more reliable, and more energy efficient.
As demand for wireless data continues to grow, future 6G networks will need higher data speeds and lower delays than today's 5G systems. One promising solution is to use a new frequency band called FR3, which spans frequencies from 7 GHz to 24 GHz. This range sits between the lower frequencies currently used for 5G (FR1) and the much higher frequencies used in millimeter-wave 5G systems (FR2). FR3 is attracting significant interest because it offers a good balance between network coverage and data capacity.
A key challenge in using the FR3 band is the need for RF filters, which are components that allow desired signals to pass while blocking unwanted signals. Future RF filters must be small, energy efficient, and capable of operating reliably across the FR3 frequency range. Existing acoustic filter technologies, which use mechanical vibrations to process radio signals, become increasingly difficult to scale to these higher frequencies due to material limitations, manufacturing variations, and performance losses.
In this PhD project, you will investigate how advanced piezoelectric materials and novel acoustic device designs can be used to create next-generation RF filters for FR3 applications.
The work will combine several aspects of research, including:
- Understanding the physics of acoustic waves in materials.
- Computer modelling and simulation of devices.
- Fabrication of micro- and nano-scale devices.
- Experimental characterization and RF performance measurements.
Different material systems and device architectures will be studied and compared in terms of performance, manufacturability, integration with existing technologies, and scalability for future production.
The ultimate goal is to develop and demonstrate a new compact RF filter technology that can support future 6G wireless communication systems.
Desired Background
We are looking for a motivated student who has:
- A Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, Micro/Nanoengineering, or a related field.
- Strong knowledge of wave physics, mechanics, electronics, and semiconductor devices.
- Experience with MATLAB and/or Python for simulation and data analysis.
- Interest or experience in MEMS, acoustics, ultrasound technologies, or RF systems.
- Experience with microfabrication, RF/microwave measurements, or material characterization is beneficial but not required.
Required background: Engineering Technology, Engineering Science, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or an equivalent discipline. Interest in MEMS, RF systems, acoustics, modelling, and experimental research is expected.
Type of work: 40% Modelling & Simulation, 50% Experimental Research, 10% Literature Review
Supervisor: Bertrand Parvais (VUB)
Co-supervisor: Bertrand Parvais (VUB)
Daily advisor: Bart Weekers
The reference code for this position is 2027-114. Mention this reference code in your application.