Internship | Testbed/Prototype Development of Joint Communication and Sensing in 6G Networks

A number of enablers are researched for adoption in the targeted 6G mobile network technology, incl. ultra-massive MIMO beamforming, the use of sub-THz spectrum, network ultra-densification, cell-free networking, the use of Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs), and solutions for Joint Communications and Sensing (JCAS). With JCAS, base stations will be able to detect and track nearby objects. This will enable a wealth of new use cases and opportunities, which will greatly benefit society. However, simultaneously using the available radio resources for communication and sensing poses new challenges. One of these challenges is enabling JCAS on existing communication systems. This is desirable from both a sustainability and economical perspective and could greatly improve the adoption rate of JCAS.

At TNO, we are now in the process of developing prototypes for JCAS and to integrate it with our existing 5G testbed. This way, we want to test the feasibility and scope of JCAS, determine use-cases and do sensitivity analysis on its performance with respect to change in number of nodes (transmitters and receivers), waveform, object type, etc.

Key activities of the proposed project contributing to this optimisation problem are:

1. To develop prototypes of JCAS that enables monostatic or bistatic sensing of nearby objects using 5G OFDM waveform generated using USRP(s)
2. (Optionally) To integrate radio resource management solutions that addresses (sensing and communications) topology management, scheduling, beamforming with the prototype. This would emulate a more real-life scenario where communications and sensing would happen together.
3. To utilise aforementioned simulator to conduct an extensive set of experiments of the proposed AI/ML-based and heuristic solutions for a range of relevant scenarios and possibly distinct optimisation timescales.
4. To derive key insights and conclusions w.r.t. both the attainable performance and the sensitivity thereof w.r.t. selected scenario aspects and the performance trade-off between communication and sensing tasks.

This internship project involves closely working with TNO employees. Further, he internship project will be conducted as part of the large nationally funded research programme ‘Future Network Services’, bringing together 50-60 partners for a targeted period of six years. The proposed MSc project is envisioned to involve collaborations/regular interactions with FNS partners.

You are a graduate student pursuing a Master's degree, preferably in the direction of Electrical Engineering or Computer Science. You have affinity with / interest in mobile networks, computer simulations, machine learning and have programming experience. You have an enterprising, flexible and cooperative nature. You are also communicative, creative and innovative. Duration of the internship project is about three months, with the potential of a (still to be defined) follow-up master graduation project.

Key strengths we are looking for:

1. Familiarity with using hardware. You would be working with USRPs, antennas, and NUCs. You may be required to understand complex datasheets and integrate different components together.
2. Previous knowledge/expertise in concepts such as 5G, wireless communications, signal and radar processing, waveform designs.
3. Ability to conduct research independently under mentorship/supervision.
4. Fluency in English in speaking as well as writing.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.

• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.