Wireless time-frequency synchronization in a distributed joint communication and sensing (JCAS) system

In a joint communication and sensing (JCAS) system, sensing refers to the ability to detect unconnected objects or map the environment. JCAS is considered as one of the key features of 6G and beyond wireless networks to enable a wide range of emerging applications, improve spectral efficiency, reduce hardware cost, and assist network optimization to improve communication performance.

In a modern wireless distributed system, different nodes of the system require common time and frequency reference. This synchronization requirement is very stringent for sensing and can not be accomplished using the existing and well proven synchronization techniques for wireless communication systems. A slight mismatch in time synchronization can result in very different space locations of the same target when viewed from different nodes. Similarly, frequency offset will cause error in speed. Therefore, enabling the multi-node sensing demands techniques to achieve tight synchronization (time and frequency) among the nodes.

In this context, you will explore wireless self-synchronization techniques for multi-node sensing while the locations and orientations of the nodes are known. During this thesis you will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with our supportive and experienced team and strengthen your skills for signal processing and simulation related to JCAS.

Required qualifications: 

• Following an MSc in a field related to one or more of the following: Electrical
  
  engineering, Computer Science, or Applied Computer Science.
• Experience with signal processing for wireless communication, some knowledge of radar concepts is a plus.
• Good programming skills MATLAB/Python
• Ability to write scientific reports in English.
  
  Type: 

• Master Thesis internship (6 months) 
  
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Responsible scientist(s):

Nazar Muhammad Idrees (IMEC)<nazar.idrees@imec.be>