Frequency-adaptive transceiver architectures for transmission diversity and spectrum sharing

In this project you will look at methods to make transceivers resistant to jamming and which allow them to operate in challenging environments. The project will investigate a number of techniques to make adaptive transmitters, including use of tuning networks and methods of adaptive matching. You will initially investigate how amplifiers can be designed to operate across different frequency bands, using combinations of matching networks and/or tuneable components. You will also develop methods for identifying interference/ jamming events and develop designs and strategies to avoid the interference by altering the operating frequency and bandwidth of the amplifier.

<p>The electromagnetic environment (EME) is becoming increasingly congested and contested. Not only are radar, sensors and communications systems being developed that are increasingly harder to detect, but disruptor technologies that affect receiver and transceiver operation, whether by accident or design, are increasingly prevalent in an overcrowded electromagnetic space. System response and resilience to Electronic Attack (EA) events are increasingly important, including through building in resistance, but increasingly through developing adaptable systems that can, for example, change operating frequency to avoid congested channels, to respond to a physically complex environment, or to avoid jamming / disruption attempts. As EM systems become increasingly diverse in both capability and operation, adaptability and flexibility are of fundamental importance to generation-after-next systems.</p> <p>In this project you will develop technology which can identify when there is interference in the band that the transceiver wishes to operate, allowing the system to adapt its operating frequency to avoid the interference. This will involve a combination of system and circuit simulations to identify suitable solutions, and the trade-offs between the possible options. The most promising solution will then be demonstrated practically, making use of the radio frequency (RF) manufacturing facilities and RF test equipment within the University laboratory facilities.</p> <p>This project represents an exciting opportunity to join a <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/news/article/5921/new_consortium_awarded_7m_to_work_on_future_science_and_technology_for_the_electromagnetic_environment">National Hub in technologies for the Electromagnetic Environment</a>, funded by the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/7m-investment-in-electromagnetic-environment-hub">Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL)</a>, led by the University of Loughborough and partnered with the University of Leeds, Queen Mary University London, the University of Glasgow and Queen&rsquo;s University Belfast. You will also have a unique opportunity to, as part of wider Hub activities, work with industrial partners in related areas.</p>

<p style="margin-bottom:11px">Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University&#39;s website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PhD Electronic &amp; Electrical Engineering</strong></em> and in the research information section&nbsp;that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Frequency-adaptive transceiver architectures for transmission diversity and spectrum sharing</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/electronic-engineering/staff/11496/professor-kevin-morris">Professor Kevin Morris</a> as your proposed supervisor.</p> <p>This project would suit an applicant with a good first degree in Physics, Electronic Engineering, or an aligned subject.</p> <p>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBTQ+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</p> <p>Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis. &nbsp;Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. &nbsp;We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of 8 June 2023:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> <li>Funding information:&nbsp;&nbsp;Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) Studentship</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p>A highly competitive Studentship funded by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL), consisting of the award of fees at the UK Fee rate with a maintenance grant of &pound;18,622 for 3 years.</p> <p>This opportunity is available to UK applicants only. All candidates will be placed into the DTSL Studentship Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p>Please refer to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a>&nbsp;website for&nbsp;information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information regarding your application, please contact Doctoral College Admissions,<br /> e: <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information regarding the project, please contact Professor Kevin Morris,<br /> e:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:K.Morris1@leeds.ac.uk">K.Morris1@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>