CONTEXT :

The recent trend in next-generation wireless networks (6G), known as ISAC (Integrated Sensing and Communication), aims at incorporating localization, detection, and mapping functionalities alongside the usual data communication services. These functions are expected to enhance network performance through spatial adaptation strategies, as well as to enable more efficient and more frugal communications through data contextualilzation. In the same 6G context, Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS), which can be controlled as low-complexity electromagnetic mirrors or lenses, have also been considered recently for shaping the radio propagation environment on purpose. For instance, this capability could be beneficial to improve the accuracy, coverage, and continuity of the localization service.

In the frame of the proposed research mission, we ambition to develop and experimentally validate (by means of dedicated measurement campaigns and simulations) some innovative estimation and control algorithms that can leverage the deployment of multiple RISs to enable the positioning/tracking of connected users, as well as of passive objects or obstacles. This research will take into account the specificity of both real RIS hardware prototypes and RIS-based multipath channels, which both have been characterized at CEA-Leti at millimeter-wave frequencies (i.e., around 26-28 GHz).

TASKS : 

• Survey and analysis of recent related State-of-the-Art contributions ;
• Design of RIS-based estimation algorithms, as well as of supporting control and signaling mechanisms, for localization, sensing and mapping, out of mmWave communication links under mobility, while accounting for realistic RIS hardware limitations.
• Validation of some of the previous algorithmic proposals, by means of both measurement data and simulation data ;
• Participation to the ellaboration of new RIS-enabled measurement campaigns (incl. the specification of the measurement setup and scenarios, field data collection, conditioning and post-processing, etc.) ;
• Contributions to related collaborative research projects at both national and European levels (incl. participation to conference calls and meetings, contributions to technical deliverables and reporting activities) ;
• Participation to the scientific dissemination of achieved results (through journals and conference papers) ;

• General knowledge in radio signal processing and modeling, including for instance (whenever possible): estimation and detection theory (e.g., Bayesian estimation and statistical inference, processes filtering, derivation of theoretical bounds...), multipath channel modeling, multi-antenna and MIMO processing techniques, high-resolution channel estimation algorithms ;
• General skills required in algorithms design, including (whenever possible) a fair understanding of distributed and hierarchical approaches;
• Proficiency in digital simulation tools (including Matlab);
• Specific knowledge in wireless localization, radio mapping, radar, and/or reconfigurable intelligent surfaces would be a highly valued plus;
• A track record of past/on-going scientific dissemination activities (i.e., journal publications or conference articles) would be a highly valued plus.