Postdoctoral Researcher – Wireless Communication and Sensing/ UAV networks
Location: Dublin
About the Team
Tyndall’s Wireless Communications Laboratory is based in Dublin, offering fully equipped facilities including UAV platforms, SDRs, test equipment, and simulation software.
About the Role
The Tyndall National Institute Wireless Communications Laboratory is recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher in Wireless Sensing and Communication for UAV and non‑terrestrial platforms within the Royal Society project SONGBIRD. This role will lead the development of waveforms, antenna array prototypes, and joint radar/communications signal processing for portable UAV payloads, validated on SDR hardware and field trials with stakeholder partners across Dublin and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
Develop beamforming and direction‑finding solutions for multi‑antenna systems, including AoA estimation and array processing, ensuring robustness to multipath effects.
Develop sensing waveforms and receiver processing suitable for UAV operation, including ranging/velocity estimation, clutter and interference mitigation, and performance evaluation in realistic environments.
Implement and validate algorithms using programming languages such as C++, Julia, Python and MATLAB.
Deploy the created solutions on configurable hardware and verify their performance in real‑world trials involving ground transmitters and UAVs.
Disseminate research achievements through publications in leading journals and conferences.
Co‑supervise, support and mentor postgraduate students as required.
Participate in education and public engagement activities, as required.
Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.
Ensure all activities are compliant with the required health and safety standards.
Carry out any additional duties reasonably required within the general scope and level of the post.
Essential Criteria
PhD degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Wireless Communications, Electrical/Electronic Engineering or a related discipline.
Strong fundamentals in statistical signal processing with a background in either radar applications, or RF system design relevant to arrays and sensing.
Familiarity with embedded systems and software‑defined radios.
Familiarity in mathematical modelling tools such as C++/Python/MATLAB/Julia.
Good publication record in IEEE or ACM journals and conference publications.
Desirable Criteria
4 years post‑PhD experience in industry or academia.
Experience in UAVs and aerial communication systems is highly desired.
Demonstration of experience with prototyping and testing communication systems in real‑world conditions.
Knowledge of wireless communication systems at the PHY and MAC layers.
Ability to engage in the wider research activities of the research group.
What We Offer
Impactful Work: Opportunities to contribute to ground‑breaking research and innovation that shape Ireland’s economy and society.
Continuous Learning: Strong support for formal training, further study and professional development.
Interdisciplinary Environment: Academia, industry and innovation intersect – supported by cutting‑edge infrastructure and expert knowledge.
Blended Working: Flexibility to work remotely and on‑site where the role allows.
Comprehensive Benefits: Access to UCC pension, long‑term illness benefit, life assurance and more.
Generous Leave: Competitive annual leave entitlements.
Equity & Inclusion: Athena Swan Bronze award holder, with ongoing initiatives led by a dedicated People and Culture team to ensure equity for all.
Core Values: A culture grounded in Ambition, Collaboration, Diversity, Excellence and Integrity.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: A proactive, innovation‑driven environment welcoming entrepreneurial and creative thinkers, including those with start‑up experience.
Supportive Onboarding: Structured induction and mentoring to help new hires integrate and thrive.
Vibrant Culture: A collaborative, people‑first workplace with a strong sense of community.
Terms of Employment
Contract Category: Full‑Time
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Duration: approximately 24 months
Appointment will be on the UCC Post‑doctorate Researcher scale €46,805 to €59,654 per annum. Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with the public sector pay policy.
Closing Date
17th April 2026, 1pm
Application Instructions
Please make sure to attach an up‑to‑date CV/Resume and a brief motivation letter outlining how you meet the ‘Essential Criteria’ for this role. Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.
For any informal queries, please contact Dr. Boris Galkin or Dr. Lester Ho.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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