Collaborative communications and localization with distributed phased array

About the project

Develop novel applications of wireless communication

If you are keen to kick-start your career in engineering and keen to advance your knowledge and understanding of wireless communications, the University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise – is offering a hands-on project-based PhD within UniSA STEM, in collaboration with researchers from DSTG.

Long-range communications, such as satellite communications, usually require bulky antennas and/or high transmit power. These requirements are particularly challenging in low size, weight and power applications. 

Our project develops techniques to address these challenges by replacing a large terminal with a group of collaborative small terminals. The technique is known as collaborative distributed phased array. We anticipate our project to find applications in various industrial sectors – for example, as a sensor network for agriculture and mining, and tactical communications. 

To realise the benefits of distributed phased array, you are required to help develop advanced communications and signal processing techniques. You will engage in an exciting road to discoveries and innovations with this impactful project.

You will be based at UniSA STEM. Wireless communication research at UniSA has made a substantial contribution to the theory and practice of communications, including information theory, signal processing, satellite communications, optical communications, and distributed collaborative communications. 

You will work with a dedicated supervising team with an excellent track record and expertise in the relevant field of research. You will also benefit from access to world-class equipment, facilities and expertise, giving you valuable hands-on experience that will hold you in good stead in the job market.   

What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will develop novel communications and signal processing techniques to realise practical applications of distributed phase arrays. Your work will include modelling communication environments, developing, simulating and testing new algorithms, and may involve prototyping and field testing of such techniques. 

We will support you in disseminating your findings through scientific journals and conferences. There may also be opportunities for you to travel and present your findings to Australian and international scientific communities.

Where you’ll be based

You will be based in UniSA STEM. We link engineering, mathematics, science, defence, cybersecurity, construction management, environmental science, aviation, information management, information technology, and project management, harnessing the connections across disciplines to bring big ideas to fruition. 

Our researchers deliver technical expertise and advice to industry, government and community groups to make commercially viable and sustainable impacts. The Future Industries Institute, Innovation and Collaboration Centre and Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments all provide consultancy and access to advanced technology. 

We integrate research into our teaching, with students working alongside researchers in first-class facilities. What’s discovered one day is taught the next.

In an information-rich world, our people think big, combatting problems, testing solutions and making data-driven decisions. Our graduates are entrepreneurs and trailblazers, who design and build the world they want to live in. Financial Support  

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $35,200 (2025 rate) per annum is available to eligible applicants. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $50,291 per annum. A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information for domestic students or international students.

Eligibility and Selection 

This project is open to application from both Domestic and International applicants.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. Additionally applicants must meet the project selection criteria: 

• A solid mathematical background
• Background in wireless communication systems, and multiple antenna communications
• Competency on software development (programming experience in Python, Matlab, or similar)
• Excellent communication and presentation skills in English

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project. A merit selection process will be used to determine the successful candidate.

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our Mawson Lakes Campus in the north of Adelaide. Note that international students on a student visa will need to study full-time.

Essential Dates 

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Wednesday, 27 November.