PhD Position Unconventional Phased Array Topologies
Job description
Future 6G wireless networks, satellite communications, and advanced radar platforms require antenna systems that simultaneously support wide bandwidths, large scan ranges, low power consumption, and high integration density. Conventional phased arrays face increasing challenges in scalability, efficiency, complexity, and cost, especially at millimeter-wave frequencies.
This PhD project explores unconventional antenna array topologies that combine sparse, clustered, and aperiodic phased-array feeds with lens-based electromagnetic structures. The intended scientific breakthrough is the development and experimental validation of novel hybrid array-lens topologies for next-generation wireless sensing and communication platforms.As a PhD candidate, you will investigate several innovative research directions, including:
- Element-level or subarray-level lens loading for hybrid radiation pattern synthesis.
- Sparse and aperiodic phased-array topologies integrated with electromagnetic lenses.
- Array-fed lens systems, including GRIN and other advanced lens architectures.
- Multifunctional and modular antenna concepts supporting communication and sensing.
While the primary focus is on millimeter-wave systems, concept validation and experimental prototyping at lower frequencies are also within scope. The research includes electromagnetic modeling, antenna synthesis, optimization, prototyping, and experimental validation using advanced measurement facilities and additive manufacturing technologies, including 3D-printing capabilities available through the Microelectronics department.
Microwave Sensing, Signals, and Systems
The Microwave Sensing, Signals and Systems (MS3) group is part of Department of Microelectronics, within the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science (EEMCS). MS3 specializes in research and education at the cutting edge of microwave systems, focusing on both fundamental and applied research. Leveraging electromagnetics as a core foundation, MS3’s work spans applications in wireless communications, safety, environmental monitoring, automotive radar and healthcare technologies. As part of MS3, you’ll collaborate within a multidisciplinary team of researcher, including high regarded Professors in microwave and radar technology. MS3 Research Facilities include Europe-leading laboratories with sophisticated radar setups like the PARSAX and MESEWI systems, and state-of-the-art equipment for indoor and outdoor sensing experiments, and antenna measurements. This robust infrastructure enables students and researchers to pioneer solutions for real-world challenges in radar and microwave sensing.
Beyond technical training, MS3 encourages a collaborative research environment, promoting innovation in radar applications while fostering development through access to conferences and professional networking opportunities
Job requirements
- MSc degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Microwave Engineering, or a related field.
- Strong background in electromagnetics, antennas, and microwave engineering.
- Knowledge of phased arrays, antenna synthesis, or computational electromagnetics is highly appreciated.
- Experience with electromagnetic simulation tools (such as CST, HFSS, FEKO, or similar).
- Programming experience in MATLAB, Python, or similar environments.
- Interest in experimental prototyping and antenna measurements.
- Experience with additive manufacturing or RF hardware prototyping is a plus.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as in multidisciplinary research teams.
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.
At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.
Challenge. Change. Impact!
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment – which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.
Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.
Conditions of employment
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.
Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Prof. Dr Alexander Yarovoy, Chairman of MS3, via a.yarovoy@tudelft.nl.
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 1 July 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- CV
- A cover letter in which you describe your personal motivation and specific qualifications for this position (max 1 page)
- Abstract of your MSc thesis
- Copies of two journal/conference publications (if applicable)
You can address your application to Prof. Dr Alexander Yarovoy, Chairman of MS3.
Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.
Please note:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
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