Responsible of the SDN-over-Satellites research line

The Space Communications R&D Group is investigating novel communications technologies for satellite systems capable of enhancing future broadband communications and Earth observation missions. Additionally, these developments contribute to the integration of satellites in current 5G and future 6G infrastructure, following the Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) concept. To achieve this goal, the group activity is currently focused on different research lines. Among them, the Software Defined Network (SDN) -over-Satellite is the research line related to this job vacancy.

Specifically, the SDN-over-Satellite research line aims at contributing to the development of the Software-based satellite concept. This novel approach conceives a satellite network as an in-orbit infrastructure (i.e. hardware) with different available resources, capable of allocating them to services or network functions. With this technique, virtual satellites or functions are deployed in space making them transparent to end-users. Applications of this concept include the dynamic definition of SDN with the proper allocation of network controllers, reconfiguration of satellites for Earth observation, multiple-service consumption, among others.

The research line is currently focused on two activities:

• The development of the Flexible Payload. An embedded system capable of internally managing a set of services in a satellite that consumes resources. Challenges such as resource management, dynamic allocation, orchestration and scheduling of services are examples to be solved.

• The development of a centralized and unified orchestrator of the services. A ground system capable of orchestrating services in the satellite network / constellation according to different selection criteria, such as service continuity or resource status.

Additionally, these activities are part of the 6GSatNet project. Starting 2022, i2CAT is launching a new 6G program to build the smart communication networks and digital services of the future. One of the projects conducted in this 6G program is the 6GSatNet which aims at contributing in the development of NTN.

This job offer is centered on PhD researchers that are interested in investigating in this novel field, and contributing in novel technologies to define the 6G. For this purpose the candidate will lead a group of engineers and researchers to conduct the different activities in the SDN-o-Satellites research lines, and the associated projects. Additionally, he/she will be responsible to promote the activities of the research line by establishing development collaborations with other public and private entities, as well as defining the research roadmap of the group. Finally, the candidate will publish the research achievements in scientific journals, and conferences.

As a summary, the tasks associated to this job are the following ones:

(1) Lead the research line by defining the roadmap and expanding with novel projects

(2) Lead the team to execute current projects

(3) Establish development collaboration with other entities

(5) Participate in the definition of development proposals for European and national programs

(4) Disseminate the results by means of scientific publications

Who we are:

The i2CAT Foundation is a non-profit research and innovation center that promotes mission-driven R&D activities on advanced Internet architectures, applications, and services. More than 15 years of international research define our expertise in the fields of 5G, IoT, VR, and Immersive Technologies, Cybersecurity, Blockchain, AI, and Digital Social Innovation. The center partners with companies, public administration, academia, and end-users to leverage this knowledge in order to meet real social and business challenges.

The greatest value of i2CAT is the talent of the people who make up our human team. We enjoy a team of people from more than 13 different nationalities and work every day to create and foster a work environment where we all feel comfortable creating, innovating and growing.

Want to know more? Visit our webpage! www.i2cat.net

Where will you do it?

At i2CAT we already have an established ‘work-from-home’ policy for some time. You can work from home or from the office, whichever suits you best. We expect that you attend the office two days per week: one to stay connected with your team and another one to engage with other colleagues

If you decide to come to the office, we are located in Zona Universitària, next to the Campus Nord of the UPC, within a multidisciplinary and multicultural environment. It is a very well-connected area (metro, tram, bus) with bars and restaurants around.

Our offices are designed with an open-office concept where everything is light and transparency. We have a variety of workspaces so that you don't have to be at the same table all day.

i2CAT is an organization committed to equal opportunities. That is why we seek to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented, and therefore explicitly encourage female candidates to apply.

I2CAT is an organization committed to creating an environment where we celebrate diversity, and where we provide the dedicated support that our employees need, regardless of their disability.

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