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Job Description - CASUAL - Research Assistant - Wireless Sensing Internship (24002236)
Department of Engineering
Casual/Atypical (Fees) - Atypical
Typical/Contracted Hours: 6
Closing Date
Ongoing
The University
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Role Descriptor
Wireless Sensing
This project aims to use commonly available wireless signals, such as Wi-Fi and 5G signals, to sense what is inside a bag. In airport security check, all bags must go through X-ray scanning but an X-ray scanner is often expensive and bulky. On the other hand, due to different electromagnetic properties of items inside the bag, there is an opportunity to produce a wireless image of what is inside the bag using microwave signals.
The intern will use wireless equipment in the Communications and THz Research Node to collect measurements of radio waves going through a bag containing water bottles, metals and other typical items in carry-on luggage. They will then develop machine/deep learning algorithms to process these measurements to extract the item information. It is hoped that some preliminary results can be obtained to show the feasibility of the wireless sensor. This work will be funded by an EU project on non-terrestrial sensing and communications so there will be an opportunity to present the results in the project workshop next year. If the results are satisfactory, there will be further intern opportunity in the summer using the wireless sensor for other applications.
The intern will:
* Work with the project lead (Prof Yunfei Chen) and other members of the team to ensure correctness of the research direction.
* Read the literature to find similar works on wireless sensing to include in the analysis.
* Receive training on the use of specialist telecom equipment.
* Perform experiments using the equipment.
* Analyse the acquired data to produce results and figures suitable for inclusion in a publication, with support and guidance from colleagues in Engineering.
* Produce a report of their internship for the project.
Commitment
* 8 weeks starting soon after Monday 20th January 2025 (starting time and hours per week are flexible based on your load).
* Pay - £16.67 per hour.
* Develop skills in wireless communications, machine/deep learning and programming in a supportive and interdisciplinary environment.
* Opportunity to contribute to a publication and develop skills useful in preparing scientific reports.
Required Skills:
* Experience in signal processing, especially machine/deep learning.
* Programming languages such as MATLAB or Python.
* Literature review and reading.
* Verbal communication.
* Time management.
* Knowledge of communications would be desirable.
Application is by short personal statement (250 words maximum), detailing your experience in signal processing, machine/deep learning, programming, level of knowledge in communications, and motivation for applying for the role. This should be sent by email to Prof Yunfei Chen (yunfei.chen@durham.ac.uk) by the 13th January 2025 with a view to holding interviews the week after, and for the role beginning immediately thereafter.
The below role descriptor seeks to capture the main requirements of the role consistently, providing a summary of the key duties of the flexible role to help in setting expectations for applicants, flexible workers and line managers. They are not intended to cover all duties which may be required.
Role Responsibilities
Research Assistant/Associate
Casual Grade 6
* Undertake research as appropriate to the field of study including conducting literature reviews, collecting and analysing data.
* Maintain accurate records of interviews, safeguarding the confidentiality of subjects, as necessary.
* Provide ready access to all experimental data for the faculty researcher and/or supervisor.
* Prepare other articles, reports, and presentations.
* Manage and respond to project related email.
* Attend project meetings, seminars and other meetings as necessary.
To apply for the role please complete the online application process, uploading a copy of your CV and covering letter.
Disclosure and Barring Service Requirement: Not Applicable.
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