Design, Measurement, and AI‑Based Optimisation of Miniaturised Antennas

About the Project

This PhD project focuses on the design, measurement, and optimisation of compact, high‑performance antennas for use on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and next‑generation communication and sensing platforms. As wireless technologies progress towards 6G and beyond, there is a growing demand for miniaturised antennas that deliver high gain, efficiency, and adaptability while operating under stringent size, weight, and power constraints. Addressing these challenges requires the integration of advanced electromagnetic modelling, artificial intelligence, and experimental validation.

The research will combine full‑wave electromagnetic simulation with AI‑driven and evolutionary optimisation techniques to explore novel antenna geometries, materials, and multiband configurations. Antenna designs will be modelled using industry‑standard tools and fabricated using modern prototyping techniques. Experimental validation will be carried out through precision measurements in a state‑of‑the‑art anechoic chamber to assess radiation patterns, efficiency, and beam‑forming performance. Machine‑learning approaches will be used to accelerate the design cycle and enable intelligent optimisation of antenna performance across multiple operating scenarios. The project offers strong links to emerging applications in communications and sensing and aims to produce high‑impact research outcomes with both academic and industrial relevance.

Entry Requirements

• Qualifications: First‑class or strong upper second‑class honours degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Communications Engineering. A relevant MSc or MEng is required.
• Skills & Experience: Solid grounding in electromagnetics and RF engineering. Experience with EM simulation tools (e.g. CST, HFSS, FEKO) and programming (Python or MATLAB) is desirable.
• Additional Knowledge: Practical laboratory experience, antenna measurements, or AI‑based optimisation methods would be advantageous but are not essential.

Application Details

• A motivational email as to why you wish to apply for the scholarship, stating which project you are applying for.
• Full CV
• Provide copies of transcripts and certificates of all relevant academic and/or any professional qualifications.
• Provide references from two individuals – please contact your referees and ask them to send your reference directly to gs.pgradmissions@hud.ac.uk from their email address. (references can be submitted late but must be received by 17th May 2026)
• Proof of eligibility – e.g. scan of passport photo page
• International applicants must be able to provide an IELTS 6.5 (with no element below 6) *or equivalent English Language certificate or proof of study in the UK within the past 2 years, for their application to be considered for shortlisting.

Please email gs.pgradmissions@hud.ac.uk with queries regarding eligibility and submitting documents. Informal enquiries about individual projects should be directed to the lead supervisor listed for each project.

Funding Notes

3 years full-time research covering tuition fees and a tax-free bursary (stipend) starting at £21,805 for 2026/27.