Fully funded Belgium

Physical-layer security for wireless mesh networks

KU Leuven, Belgium

Institution: KU Leuven
Country: Belgium
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Funding: Fully funded position

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About this position

DistriNet is a world-leading research group at KU Leuven (http://distrinet.cs.kuleuven.be/). Our research focuses on distributed software systems and secure software engineering, covering topics such as the security of IoT systems, applied cryptography, enterprise software, and data systems, etc. We aim to develop adaptable, high-quality, and trustworthy software systems.
DistriNet’s applied research unit at Group-T focuses specifically on:
- Intelligent and distributed e-application security
- Security of IoT and cyber-physical systems
The research vision of the group is to design and develop secure software engineering and development tools for ICT systems and applications, with a strong emphasis on IoT. What sets us apart is our commitment to bridging worlds: we combine high-impact strategic research with applied, industry-relevant innovation. This dual approach allows us to make both scientific breakthroughs and create real-world impact.
Website unit

Project

Networked control of robotic systems is becoming increasingly critical, driven by the rise of Swarm Robotics, where large numbers of simple robots coordinate to achieve shared objectives. The real-time and safety-critical nature of these systems demands communication networks with high and deterministic Quality of Service (QoS) – in throughput, reliability, and especially latency. However, these communication networks can only be trusted for safety- and mission-critical robotic applications if they provide robust, in-network message authentication and strong availability guarantees – without eroding the deterministic latency requirements. Therefore, the goal of this research project is to design novel physical-layer authentication solutions that can reliably detect malicious communication in wireless mesh networks – while preserving strict latency bounds required for safety-critical robotics.

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented PhD candidate who shares our passion for high-impact research. As part of our team, you will:

Design and develop novel physical layer authentication mechanisms – based on secure localization and device fingerprinting – compatible with deterministic low-latency communication.
Explore the role of AI in realizing quasi-real-time anomaly detection based on physical-layer authentication.
Contribute to high-impact research at the crossroads of physical layer authentication and network security.

Profile

We are looking for a candidate who shares our passion for high-impact research and innovation in this critical domain. You are an ideal fit if you have:

A Master’s degree in Engineering Technology (ICT, cybersecurity, telecommunication, etc.), Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
Demonstrated academic excellence, reflected in a Master's degree awarded with at least cum laude honours.
Strong analytical skills and technical expertise.
Excellent command of English, both written and spoken.
A solid foundation in telecommunications, networking, and network security principles.

Additional assets:

Practical experience in physical layer security.
Familiarity with machine learning or AI concepts.
Curiosity, creativity, and the drive to explore new research ideas.

Offer

We offer

the possibility to work towards obtaining a PhD degree from KU Leuven – ranked highly in major global rankings – and become a well-trained, independent researcher,
a supportive and collaborative team in which you can develop know-how and expertise in state-of-the-art security technologies,
the opportunity to build up research and innovation skills that are essential for a future career in industrial as well as academic research and development environments,
support in the further development of your competences towards analysing strategic research problems and to architect and evaluate innovative solutions with industrial applicability,
an international and multicultural working environment at the KU Leuven Group-T Campus, in the vibrant city centre of Leuven.
an attractive salary package, complemented with multiple benefits (health insurance, access to university infrastructure and sports facilities, etc.).

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Dave Singelée, mail: [email protected].

Note that only applications through the KU Leuven portal will be considered.

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

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