Fully funded PhD · NIA Lab, UCD
Deadline: 1 November 2026Intelligent Coordination for Open RAN & Non-Terrestrial Networks
Join the Network Intelligence and Automation Lab at University College Dublin to develop intelligent control and resource management for integrated terrestrial 5G/6G and LEO satellite networks.
- €25,000 / year
- Tax-free PhD stipend
- Full tuition fees
- Covered by the scholarship
- Beijing placement
- September–December each year
- Additional support
- Travel, living costs in China and paid TA work
The research
This PhD will investigate how Open RAN controllers and non-terrestrial networks can be coordinated as an integrated communication network. You will work with RAN Intelligent Controllers to develop mechanisms spanning terrestrial 5G/6G infrastructure and LEO satellite constellations.
The project brings together intelligent network automation and satellite connectivity, building on NIA’s work in Open RAN conflict mitigation and satellite network automation.
Central research question
How can intelligent controllers coordinate terrestrial and satellite resources despite rapid mobility, intermittent connectivity and changing service demands?
Open RAN and intelligent control
Explore how xApps in the Near-Real-Time RIC and rApps in the Non-Real-Time RIC support network optimisation, including scheduling, load balancing and resource management.
Non-terrestrial connectivity
Investigate LEO satellite networks within the wider NTN landscape, which also includes airborne platforms such as drones and high-altitude platform stations. These systems can extend connectivity to areas where terrestrial coverage is unavailable or disrupted.
Coordination across network domains
Develop resource management mechanisms across terrestrial base stations and satellite nodes, addressing rapid satellite mobility, intermittent links and seamless service continuity.
Who we are looking for
We are seeking a motivated researcher with a strong technical foundation and an interest in intelligent communication networks. Relevant skills and experience include:
- Telecommunications & networking
- Understanding of 5G architecture, network slicing, SDN and NFV. Familiarity with O-RAN architecture and interfaces such as E2 and A1 would be an advantage.
- AI & machine learning
- Experience with frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow, particularly for optimisation, prediction or intelligent decision-making.
- Programming & simulation
- Programming experience in Python, C++ or MATLAB, and an interest in developing algorithms and evaluating networks using tools such as ns-3 or Mininet.
A PhD spanning Dublin and Beijing
You will join UCD’s NIA Lab, working alongside researchers in Open RAN conflict mitigation, satellite network automation and intelligent resource management.
The annual September–December placement in Beijing provides an international dimension to your doctoral research. Support for travel and living costs in China accompanies the scholarship, alongside opportunities for paid teaching assistant work.
Applications
Apply for this PhD scholarship
Submit your application using the online form. Please prepare:
- Your CV.
- A cover letter explaining your interest in the project and highlighting relevant research, programming or networking experience.
- Your academic transcripts.
Application deadline: