Postdoctoral Researcher in statistical signal processing

The Department of Information and Communications Engineering is now inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in statistical signal processing.

The Structured and Stochastic Modeling Group, headed by Prof. Filip Elvander, conducts research in statistical signal processing, ranging from investigating fundamental properties of the mathematical descriptions of signals, to applied research in array signal processing. We are now looking for an outstanding Postdoctoral Researcher to join the group.

The research project is concerned with the challenging problem of modeling the complex modern radio environment, where a diverse set of devices and agents share the available spectrum. In this environment, it is crucial to understand the spatio-temporal radio characteristics, i.e. what, when, and from where signals are transmitted and how they interact with the environment. Applications of the envisioned research results include cognitive and adaptive spectrum use as well as localization of targets or signal sources in passive-sensing settings. This lies at the heart of the emerging field of integrated sensing and communications (ISAC), which is expected to be a core component of emerging 6G wireless systems.

The research project is part of a larger consortium with industrial partners, gathering world-class researchers in sensing and making sense of the physical world with expertise ranging from estimation and optimization theory to hardware design. The specific topic of the project falls in the intersection of statistical signal processing and applied mathematics and is in particular concerned with optimal transport for inverse problems applied to the radio spectrum.

Optimal transport for inverse problems

One of the central topics of the research projects is the further development of theory and methods for the concept of optimal transport for inverse problems. Optimal transport is concerned with the mathematical problem of comparing and interpolating distributions of mass, for example probability distributions. The concept has lately gained increasing interest from researchers in applied mathematics and machine learning. This is due to its remarkable flexibility, mathematical elegance, and as it has produced state-of-the-art results in many applications. As a leading expert on the use of optimal transport theory in inverse problems, Prof. Elvander is working towards making the framework a powerful tool for applications in signal processing and control.

Your role and goals

As a postdoctoral researcher in this project, you will work on mathematical models for describing the radio environment and to design algorithms for estimating, for example, the location and spectral characteristics of signal sources based on measurements collected from antenna arrays. In the project, a cornerstone will be the use of theory and methods from optimal mass transport and convex modeling. The goal of the project is to make foundational theoretical contributions and to develop tools relevant for industry applications.

Your experience and profile

• PhD in Applied Mathematics, Engineering Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Strong publication record.
• A good command of English, both written and spoken.
• Good programming skills in languages such as Matlab and Python.
• Appetite for working on fundamental research using theory and methods from applied mathematics, statistical signal processing, information theory and machine learning.
• A curious mindset.
• An interest in multi-disciplinary research.
• Ability to provide guidance and mentorship to doctoral researchers.

What we offer

The Department of Information and Communications Engineering conducts world-class research in statistical signal processing. We offer a diverse and multi-cultural workplace with strong international ties. As the research project is part of a larger consortium, you will benefit from the expertise of a range of world-leading researchers, as well as a community of doctoral and postdoctoral researchers working towards the same overarching goal.

The starting date is 1.9.2026, or as mutually agreed.

The position will be filled for two years. The salary is determined according to the salary system of Finnish universities. The starting salary for Postdoctoral Researcher is approximately 4100 €/month.

As an employer, Aalto University provides excellent learning and development opportunities as well as occupational health care services, commuter ticket benefit and sport activities offered by Unisport.

Ready to apply?

To apply for the position, please submit your application including the attachments mentioned below as one single PDF document in English through our online recruitment system by using the link ("Apply Now”) on Aalto University’s web page. Your application should contain

• Letter of motivation including a brief description of your research interests.
• CV including list of publications
• Degree certificates and academic transcripts, including Doctoral Degree Certificate (or information about the expected defence date, if defending soon)
• Contact details of at least two referees (or letters of recommendation, if already available)

The deadline for applications is 17.6.2026. Note that the position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is identified, possibly already during the application period.

For additional information, kindly contact Prof. Filip Elvander at filip.elvander@aalto.fi. For additional information in recruitment process related questions, please contact HR Advisor Johanna Haapalainen, hr-elec@aalto.fi.