PhD positions on Data-Driven Network Control and Orchestration in 5G

PhD positions on Data-Driven Network Control and Orchestration in 5G
at Communication System Department of Eurecom, Sophia Antipolis, France
---
Position: Ph.D. for a duration of 36 month (+/- 4 months)
Expected starting date: ASAP
University: UPMC (http://www.upmc.fr/en/index.html)
Host Institution: Eurecom, Communication System Department
Location: Campus SophiaTech, in the French Riviera.
Title: Data-Driven Network Control and orchestration in 5G
Description: The successful candidate will conduct experimental system research based on developing and applying machine learning techniques. The research will also include data mining and analysis to optimize the performance of radio access networks in emerging 4G-5G computing network applications. During research, the candidate will work on the developing and implementation of cognitive methods and algorithms that allow automated network programmability based on leveraging network-generated information (data-driven networking), and with the purpose of taking network decisions based on both user and network predicted performances (in time and space). In order to convey the former idea, a simple example would be a set of decisions/actions for offloading users to less congested Base Stations (BSs) in order to balance the load while maintaining a desired level of QoS.
In addition to simulation (e.g. Matlab), we will experimentally validate a subset of the proposed data-driven control methods/algorithms on the OpenAirInterface (OAI) and Mosaic5G platforms. Performance evaluation and validation will done through emulation and real experimentations in a small-scale deployment at the Eurecom open5G Lab living testbed.
Context: The research work will be carried out in the framework of the 5GPPP European collaborative projects (https://5g-ppp.eu/ phase 2), with strong industrial partners as well as a number of world-class universities. It is funded by the European Commission under the H2020 Framework Programme. The candidate will actively participate to the progress of the projects.
Prerequisites for the interested applicants:
- Hold a MSc degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or another closely related area;
- Have understanding of the current technology landscape 4G/5G as well as SDN/MEC/NFV,
- Good level of programming skills (preferably, C and Python)
- Demonstrate a high level of spoken and written English - English is the de facto working language.
Desired and other appreciated features for the interested applicants:
We would appreciate candidates with one or more of the following features. Unlike the former, the following features are not prerequisites:
- Being capable of managing large data sets and developing statistical models;
- Have analytical skills and performance evaluation methodology;
- Any level of knowledge or background on Machine Learning, data mining and deep learning techniques.
Application documents:
Applications should be sent to: Prof. Navid Nikaein (email: navid.nikaein-AT-eurecom.fr), with Xenofon Vasilakos cc'd (email: xenofon.vasilakos-AT-eurecom.fr) and must include the following information:
- A detailed CV, with full contact information, education details, both past and current positions and academic work
- A short (at most one page) cover letter explaining the candidate's background (relevant publications), qualifications and research interests,
- Copies of relevant diplomas, degrees or certificates, transcript records,
- Copies of at least 2 recommendation letters.