Researcher position to investigate on satellite constellation planning for IoT scenarios

The Space Communications Research Group is investigating different research lines related to the deployment of satellite networks. In particular, the development of new communication protocols to integrate Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in satellite constellations has become one of the main research topics of the group. 

Narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT) is becoming one of the relevant IoT technologies that is being extended in different domains. Its application in satellite systems is currently being discussed. These systems can provide global coverage and ubiquitous services to terrestrial devices. One of the main challenges that needs to be tackled is the orchestration of a satellite constellation that provides this service. Satellite operations are commonly planned, and the tasks are executed following a proper schedule. In this case, this schedule must include interaction with IoT sensors, which could be random or periodic behavior. The definition of algorithm that is able to define this schedule is crucial for the survivability of the constellation.  

The candidate will investigate techniques for constellation planification in order to integrate IoT operations. For this reason, the candidate shall review and understand current technologies that address this challenge, and extend it with novel approaches. It is expected to develop solutions that could be deployed in future satellite missions.

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

- Review the state of the art related to satellite planification and optimization problems

- Investigate in novel technologies to orchestrate satellite with IoT operations

- Investigate in optimization techniques/models to be integrated in this scenario

- Design and implement a software solution that is able to manage this constellation

- Study the limitations and enhancements of the proposed solution

- Publish the research results in conferences and Q1/Q2 journals

Who we are:

i2CAT Foundation is a non-profit research and innovation centre that promotes mission oriented R&D activities on advanced Internet architectures, applications and services. The centre stands for a new open innovation framework, fostering the collaboration between companies, public administration, the academic environment and end-users.

i2CAT’s activities span the areas of Research, playing a key role in the EU Framework Program for Research and Innovation; Strategic Projects, leading local initiatives that strengthen the digital policies of public administration, and Technology Transfer, fostering R&D collaboration with companies to develop innovative market-oriented solutions.

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