Master thesis 30 hp: Adaptive Radio Communication for Long-Range Applications

Are you interested in long-range radio technology and communication solutions that remain relevant as technology evolves? This master thesis offers the opportunity to explore how radio communication can become more adaptable and independent of a specific radio platform.

Your role

You will investigate how radio communication can be adapted across different radio technologies, operating conditions and system requirements, with particular attention to reliable long-range connectivity. The project combines theoretical analysis, mathematical modelling and practical experimentation. You will explore how range, data rate, reliability, latency and energy consumption affect the choice of communication method, and how software can adapt radio parameters based on current link conditions and application needs.

AI-assisted development tools may be used to support implementation, testing and analysis. The main focus will be on applied physics, wireless communication and radio performance.

Background

Radio communication systems are often developed around a specific radio technology or hardware platform. This can make it difficult to adapt when requirements, operating conditions or available hardware change. Long-range communication presents additional challenges. A radio link may need to provide robust low-data-rate communication over extended distances while enabling higher data rates or lower latency when conditions allow. Propagation, interference and obstructions must also be considered. An adaptable architecture could separate application requirements from the underlying radio implementation and select or configure a suitable communication method based on current link conditions.

Description of the Thesis Project

This thesis will investigate adaptable communication software for long-range point-to-point radio links across different technologies and platforms.

The work may include:

• Review and comparison of relevant long-range radio technologies
• Analysis of range, robustness, data rate, latency and energy consumption
• Link-budget calculations and propagation modelling
• Investigation of adaptive modulation, data rate, output power and other radio parameters
• Development of a flexible communication concept and demonstrator
• Evaluation through simulations, laboratory tests and, where possible, field measurements
• Use of AI-assisted tools for implementation, testing and analysis
• Recommendations for future development

The demonstrator could combine robust low-data-rate communication for extended range with faster communication under more favourable radio conditions. The exact technical direction will be guided by the findings during the thesis. The objective is to explore how software and radio technology can create adaptable long-range point-to-point communication without dependence on a specific platform or technology.

Your profile

The project is suitable for one students in the final stage of a master’s degree in Engineering Physics or a related technical field.

You have a strong analytical background and an interest in applying physics and mathematics to engineering problems. You enjoy combining theoretical analysis and modelling with simulations and practical experiments.

Experience with one or more of the following is considered an advantage:

• Electromagnetic fields and wave propagation
• Signal processing and communication theory
• Modulation and digital communication
• RF technology, antennas and measurements
• Embedded or software-defined radio systems
• MATLAB, Python or similar analysis tools

Contact information

Oscar Gunnarsson, manager

oscar.gunnarsson@saabgroup.com

We provide the support and guidance you need to translate your theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. Join us and become a driving force behind Saab's technological advancements!

This position requires that you pass a security vetting based on the current regulations around/of security protection. For positions requiring security clearance additional obligations on citizenship may apply.

Kindly observe that this is an ongoing recruitment process and that the position might be filled before the closing date of the advertisement.

What you will be a part of

Explore a wealth of possibilities. Take on challenges, create smart inventions, and grow beyond. This is a place for curious minds, brave pioneers, and everyone in between. Together, we achieve the extraordinary, each bringing our unique perspectives. Your part matters.

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world.

Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defense capability of several nations. Read more about us here.