PhD vacancy in scheduling and control algorithms for future networks

Ghent University – imec IDLab Research group

IDLab is a research group of Ghent University, as well as a core research group of imec.  IDLab performs fundamental and applied research on data science and internet technology and counts over 300 researchers.  IDLab is also part of imec, the world-leading research and innovation hub in nanoelectronics and digital technologies. The combination of our widely acclaimed leadership in microchip technology and profound software and ICT expertise is what makes us unique.
The NetModel team within IDLab where this vacancy is offered, consists of engineers and scientists who are building models for the future Internet. NetModel investigates network control mechanisms, network optimization and performance-related aspects of networks. The group has a strong track record in the domains of optical networks, network performance optimization, and sofware-defined networking.

Context

We imagine a future world of connected autonomously driving vehicles, AR/VR devices, smart clothing, cooperative robots in industry, or drones delivering packages at your doorstep.  These applications are expected to be possible from novel techniques in wireless networking resulting into an increased spectrum, but also from the deep integration of the network with all types of computing power in the cloud and at the edge of the network. 

While all of this is possible in theory, many network control problems need to be solved under the hoods to make this possible: the topology consisting of all these different network segments must be discovered, routes must be found, and guarantees must be provided such that network communication can happen within (or less than) milliseconds. While already challenging on its own, this all must happen in a continuously changing environment, where people and devices move all the time. 
This gives rise to a wide number of optimization-related challenges in a highly distributed context. How to detect and utilize the best routes, highest capacity with lowest (and guaranteed) latencies between all those devices, and how to perform reservations within tight time boundaries.

The research group is involved in several national and European research projects focusing on future networks and their ability to provide novel services on demand at high performance with strong guarantees.
To face the different research challenges in this domain, we are looking for a researcher who is able to combine modelling, algorithmic and software skills needed to advance this field. 

What you will do

• Under the supervision of professors in the team, you will prepare a PhD dissertation over a duration of about 4 years.
• You perform research in the domain of network control and optimization.
• You publish and present results both at international conferences and in scientific journals.
• You design mechanisms and algorithms for network scheduling, optimization, and control
• You implement proof of concepts of designed mechanisms and algorithms in simulation or small-scale real-world networks 
• You validate your research through adequate quantitative measurements in a statistically meaningful manner
• You tightly collaborate with IDLab colleagues within the NetModel team, as well as in other teams where appropriate.
• You will participate in the framework of national and European funded research projects and collaborate with research partners from industry.
• You will assist the research group with limited educational tasks.

What we do for you

We offer a fully funded PhD position for full-time research in a highly international, renowned and friendly working environment, with a market appropriate salary at Ghent University. As a researcher you will publish and present your research results at major international conferences and in scientific journals in order to pursue your PhD degree and you will receive the possibility to follow various advanced training courses in Belgium or abroad.
Typical research projects in the Design group involve multiple researchers with different specialties working as a team. Hence, a good team spirit, a good knowledge of English and effective communication skills (such as presenting and reporting) are of major importance for a successful collaboration.

Who you are

• Holder of a Master degree in Computer Science, Informatics, Mathematics or Physics.
• Strong analytical skills for designing and implementing abstract models. 
• Strong interest in network modelling and optimization. 
• Strong programming skills and ability to adapt to a particular language or environment (C/C++, Python, Java, …)
• You work well alone, have a strong feeling of responsibility and can commit to timing and milestones set forward by different research projects. 
• You are a team player and have strong communication skills. 
• A good knowledge of English (oral and written) is a must. Any knowledge of Dutch (oral) is a plus.

This PhD position is available immediately and is open until the vacancy is filled. The position is not open for post-docs.

Interested?

Apply by sending an email to prof. Wouter Tavernier, Didier Colle. Your application should include: 

• your resume (curriculum vitae)
• motivation letter (indicating both your research background/interest as well as any specific research skills) 
• a copy of your diploma and diploma supplement (with overview of all courses followed)

Applications without resume, letter or transcripts will not be considered. 

For more information, please contact:
Wouter Tavernier – wouter.tavernier@ugent.be
Didier Colle – didier.colle@ugent.be