Resource management of Large-scale UAV Swarm Network

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-assisted networks are emerging as a promising technology for establishing emergency communication systems. This PhD project focuses on addressing the challenges of clustering and resource allocation in large-scale UAV networks deployed for search-and-rescue operations in disaster scenarios. The research aims to develop dynamic clustering and spectrum allocation strategies that account for time-varying conditions while meeting critical requirements such as low latency, low power consumption, and high reliability.

<p>Reliable and adaptable emergency communication is crucial for effective search-and-rescue operations during disasters, particularly when ground base stations are damaged or non-functional. UAV-assisted networks have emerged as a promising solution for establishing emergency communication systems. The inherent mobility and flexibility of UAVs, combined with their ability to operate without pre-existing network infrastructure, enable them to quickly adapt to dynamic and unpredictable environmental conditions, making them suitable for disaster response scenarios.</p> <p>In search-and-rescue operations, effective communication is critical, as first responders depend on real-time, reliable channels to coordinate their activities and collaborate with other teams. Single UAVs struggle to maintain consistent communication links, especially in large and unpredictable disaster zones. Deploying multiple UAVs provides a scalable solution to address these challenges. When organized into an ad hoc network and working collaboratively, UAVs can maintain stable communication links, share information seamlessly, make collective decisions, and execute complex tasks with greater efficiency.</p> <p>The deployment of swarm UAV networks faces significant challenges due to the high mobility, dynamic topology, and uneven distribution of Ad-Hoc Networks (ANETs). These factors introduce substantial complexity, particularly in large-scale UAV networks where the number of UAVs increases. Traditional centralized network management methods, which rely on a single controller, often create bottlenecks in information processing and decision-making. This limitation makes it difficult to adapt quickly to frequent changes in network topology,</p> <p>This PhD project aims to address the challenges of clustering and resource allocation in large-scale UAV networks deployed in disaster scenarios. The unpredictable and dynamic nature of such environments makes these problems particularly complex. The research objectives include developing dynamic clustering and spectrum allocation strategies that ensureh low latency,  low power consumption, and high reliability,  while accounting for time-varying conditions, UAV mobility, inter-UAV distances, and power consumption. </p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Electronic & Electrical Engineering FT</strong></em> and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Resource management of Large-scale UAV Swarm Network </strong></em>as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/electronic-engineering/staff/341/dr-li-x-zhang">Dr. Li X Zhang</a> and <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/electronic-engineering/staff/14162/dr-farah-al-sallami">Dr. Farah Alsallami</a> as your proposed supervisor. <em><strong>Please state clearly in the Finance section that the funding source you are applying for is School of Electronic & Electrical Engineering Studentship 2025/26.</strong></em></p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>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 LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p>Applications will be considered after the deadline.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  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 Friday 31 January 2025:</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> </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 competitive School of Electronic & Electrical Engineering Studentship providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£19,237 in academic session 2024/25) for 3.5 years. There are no additional allowances for travel, research expenses, conference attendance or any other costs.</p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px">You will be responsible for paying the overtime fee in full in your writing up/overtime year (£320 in Session 2024/25), but the scholarship maintenance allowance will continue to be paid for up to 6 months in the final year of award.</p> <p><strong>Important:</strong> Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Li X Zhang by email to <a href="mailto:l.x.zhang@leeds.ac.uk">l.x.zhang@leeds.ac.uk</a> or by telphone to +44 (0)113 343 2005</p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>