PhD (Candidate) on Digital Twinning of the 6G network

A digital twin is the digital representation of a physical object, using real-world data (both real time and historical) combined with simulation or machine learning models to enhance operations and support decision-making. The digital twin of the network, in the context of the next generation (6G) of mobile netwrosk, is motivated by the need to assess the adequacy and the efficiency of Quality-of-Service, security etc. policies as well as the design and the operation of innovative services.  The digital twin of the network,  has thus become an active area in 6G research.

The objective of the PhD project is to develop the framework and mechanisms, leading to Digital network twinning, applied in 6G. The task entails the dynamic virtual representation of 6G components and derivation of network models (digital twins) from traffic analysis, using Generative AI and large language models (LLMs). This work aim to compbine theoretical and practical aspects of digital twin networks, using AI/ML-driven optimization and control.

The research is conducted within the scope of the Future Network Services (FNS): the 6G flagship project for the Netherlands  where  60 leading ICT businesses, mobile operators, semiconductor manufacturers and research institutions, have united to spearhead the development of specific aspects of 6G: Software antennas, AI-driven network software, and groundbreaking 6G applications. 

You will be embedded in the MNS group. The group focuses its research on the fundamental architectural problems that arise from the interconnection of systems and of data flows. We look at the emerging architectures that can support the operations of the future Internet. More information can be found here .

What are you going to do?

Tasks and responsibilities:

• Investigation of the landscape for digital network twinning (including frameworks, simulators etc.) and adapting them to 6G systems;
• Model the different components of such systems using AI techniques;
• develop appropriate proof of concept(s) to benchmark the performance or validate the applicability of proposed approaches;
• access a unique state-of-the-art testbed to also put theory to practice and be at the forefront of the Dutch 6G national ecosystem.;
• become active in the research community and collaborate with other institutes and/or companies that are part of the project;
• publish and present work regularly at international conferences, workshops, and journals;
• assist in teaching activities (labs) and in supervising bachelor and master students.

What do you have to offer?

Your experience and profile:

• A Master's degree (completed or near completion) in a relevant discipline, such ascomputer science, electrical and computer engineering, telecommunication nengineering, security and network engineering, etc.;
• knowledge in optimization and machine learning, communication and networking;
• programming skills (python);
• the willingness to be part of an international research team;
• fluency in oral and written English and good presentation skills; 
• commitment to maintaining an inclusive, collaborative, diverse, supportive work environment.

Our offer

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is as soon as possible. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 2,541 in the first year to € 3,247 in the last year (scale P). UvA additionally offers an extensive package of secondary benefits, including 8% holiday allowance and a year-end bonus of 8.3%. The UFO profile PhD Candidate is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• Multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• A complete educational program for PhD students;
• Multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• Multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• Partly paid parental leave;
• The possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• A pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• The possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;
• Help with housing for a studio or small apartment when you’re moving from abroad.

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here .

About us

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 42,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.

The Faculty of Science (FNWI) has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain. 

The mission of the Informatics Institute (IvI) is to perform curiosity-driven and use-inspired fundamental research in Computer Science. The main research themes are Artificial Intelligence, Computational Science and Systems and Network Engineering. Our research involves complex information systems at large, with a focus on collaborative, data driven, computational and intelligent systems, all with a strong interactive component.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

Any questions?

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Job application

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 15 April 2024.

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your CV should be submitted in one single pdf file ):

• a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience; 
• a letter of motivation;
• a written sample in English, e.g., (a draft of) your master thesis or a paper;
• a complete record of your Bachelor and Master courses, included grades and explanation of the grading system;
• Names, affiliations, and email addresses of two academic referees who can provide details about your academic profile in relation to this position (please do not include any reference letters in your application).

Please make sure to provide ALL requested documents mentioned above.
You can use the CV field to upload your resume as a separate pdf document. Use the Cover Letter field to upload the other requested documents, including the motivation letter, as one single pdf file .

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered. Please don’t send any applications by email.

We will invite potential candidates for interviews soon after the expiration of the vacancy.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

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