PhD in Human Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields

Ghent University – Intec WAVES Research Group

Ghent University is one of the most important education and research institutions in the Low Countries, ranked 71 in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (http://www.shanghairanking.com/). On a daily basis, over 15,000 staff members and 49,000 students implement its motto "Dare to Think". Ghent University's mission statement is characterized by qualitative education, internationally renowned research and a pluralistic social responsibility. 
The WAVES research group (http://www.waves.intec.ugent.be/) is the expertise centre for Bio-electromagnetics and wireless propagation of the Department of Information Technology of Ghent University/IMEC. 

Context

Telecommunication networks emit radio-frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields using antennas. Humans, both users and non-users of these networks, are exposed to RF electromagnetic fields emitted by a range of telecommunication technologies simultaneously. As networks evolve over time, new technologies (new precoding techniques, new frequencies, (Ma)MiMo antennas, smart surfaces, etc) are introduced into the network in order to improve communication from the network towards the users and the other way around. The introduction of these new technologies changes our exposure to electromagnetic fields.  However, this exposure is at the moment not well quantified. It is important to quantify this human exposure in order to assess whether this exposure has any health effects in humans. Therefore, we are looking for a candidate who can improve our understanding of this RF electromagnetic field exposure.

What you will do

Your main tasks: 

• Perform numerical simulations of electromagnetic field exposure
• Perform environmental measurements of human exposure using portable devices
• Collaborate and shape a citizen science project that involves gamification of human exposure assessment
• Characterize antenna (arrays) in various environments
• Perform wireless propagation measurements

What we do for you

We offer a full-time paid PhD position for 1 year, extended up to 4 years after positive evaluation, in an inspiring and dynamic work environment. You will be supported by our team of experienced researchers and (international) collaborators. You will enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 35 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, a bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. 

Who you are

• Candidates with a Master degree in electrical engineering, physics engineering, biomedical engineering, applied physics, or a Master of Science degree qualify for this research job. 
• Experience with the research topic not necessary, but interest in computational physics on the one hand and RF measurements on the other hand is a plus. 
• You like to work in an international team of researchers with different scientific backgrounds and you will take ownership of your research. 
• You have a high proficiency in oral and written English.

Interested?

If you are interested in this position, please send your application letter and cv to: 

Arno Thielens
Ghent University
iGent, Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 126, 9052 GENT
Email: arno.thielens@ugent.be
Questions concerning the position can also be sent to this email address.