Why Work with us at IT?

About the position

1. By order issued by the Director-General of Instituto de Telecomunicações, on 27 April 2026, the opening of an international selection procedure was approved for the recruitment of 1 (one) PhD holder, there is an open call for the hiring an Assistant Researcher (Investigador Auxiliar) at Instituto de Telecomunicações, in the scope of project ALBATROZ - AP. This work is supported by the European Regional Development Fund (FEDER), through the Innovation and Digital Transition Programme (COMPETE 2030) of the Portugal 2030 framework [Project ALBATROZ with Nr. 17775 (COMPETE2030-FEDER-01335900)].

The work objectives are focused on delivering innovative solutions for the project, namely: supporting the study and prototyping of Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) for radio coverage optimisation based on Software Defined Radio reconfigurability; and the development of SmartRadio Environment (SRE) solutions, focusing on AI-assisted high-precision positioning via radio mapping. Specifically, the selected PhD holder will be responsible for developing and implementing indoor/outdoor positioning and localisation solutions for mobile users. This work entails implementing various algorithms in laboratory bench tests and utilising real-world data extracted from the Private 5G network at IT-Leiria. Additionally, the researcher will support the deployment of an advanced commercial AI-based localisation solution in the Private 5G network at IT-Leiria, assisting with the installation and conducting the necessary validation tests and radio mapping campaigns. Furthermore, the researcher will support complementary project activities, assisting other teams in the development of a large-scale RIS and its electronic controller, based on Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms. As a senior team member, the researcher will assume responsibility for coordinating teams, producing technical deliverables, and ensuring that the project's Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are strictly met.

We offer a challenging position with the possibility of expanding your career in an inclusive environment, with excellent working conditions, advanced lab facilities, and access to prototyping services. You have the team's support to publish in high impact Journals and Conferences, you have the possibility to participate in ongoing projects and have access to the teams network of national and international contacts

Your required profile

Candidates must hold a PhD degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, or closely related fields. A solid scientific background in radio communication systems, digital communications, and propagation is required. A strong scientific profile involving radar techniques is mandatory, particularly regarding the retrieval of distance and velocity information and their application in localisation and positioning of objects. Proven experience with Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms, radio-frequency measurements, and strong programming skills (Python or MATLAB) are essential for the role. Furthermore, practical knowledge regarding the deployment and management of Private 5G Networks (stand-alone) will be considered a significant added value. Evidence of high autonomy, the ability to meet project deadlines, and strong teamwork skills are required. Candidates must be fluent in both oral and written English, demonstrating a minimum level of B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Additionally, candidates from countries not belonging to the Community of Portuguese Language Countries must provide proof of Portuguese language proficiency at B1 level.

Your current track record of scientific publications, and or project involvement, and student supervision complies with the Productivity Criteria in force at Instituto de Telecomunicações, verifiable from your provided CV.

We are offering

We offer a challenging position with the possibility of expanding your career in an inclusive environment, with excellent working conditions, advanced lab facilities, and access to prototyping services. You have the team’s support to publish in high impact Journals and Conferences, you have the possibility to participate in ongoing projects and have access to the team’s network of national and international contacts.

About Instituto de Telecomunicações

Instituto de Telecomunicações (IT) www.it.pt, established in 1992, is one the reference institutions in Portugal, working in Communications and Information Technologies (ICT). With 200+ integrated researchers holding a PhD degree and hosting the research work of 200+ PhD students and 200+ master students, IT has a solid multidisciplinary team, addressing cutting edge topics in ICT, from fundamental to applied research in Wireless Technologies, Optical Technologies, Information and Data Science, Networks and Services, and Basic Sciences and Enabling Technologies.

Research activities are supported by advanced laboratories and are carried out in collaboration with more than 250 international Labs and Institutions. IT is evaluated regularly by an International Panel appointed by the Portuguese Science Foundation and earned the statute of State Laboratory in 1992.

More information at https://www.it.pt/Positions/WhyWorkAtIT

About the Antennas and Propagation – Lr Group

Find detailed information about this research Group at https://www.it.pt/AP-Lr

Who can apply and how

Any national, foreign, and stateless candidate(s), holding a PHD and the above specified qualifications, may apply for this position. IT follows an equal employment opportunity policy, ensuring fare decisions based on merit, regardless of race, gender, religion, or disability.

Find further information about the position, including offered conditions, required documentation, and full details of the selection process, at: Page 2

Application submissions are accepted only via the IT online portal at the same URL. The submission period opens on 29-04-2026, until 27-05-2026, 23:59 (UTC+1). No applications or documents will be accepted via email, or by any other means.