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- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge project in optical wireless communications and tackle real-world challenges.
- Company: University of Strathclyde, a leading institution in research and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive training, and opportunities for collaboration with industry experts.
- Why this job: Make an impact on next-generation communication networks while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree and enthusiasm for innovation in wireless technologies.
- Other info: Engage in secondments across academia and industry for hands-on experience.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Organisation/Company: University of Strathclyde
Department: Human Resources
Research Field: Physics » Optics
Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)
Positions: PhD Positions
Application Deadline: 2 Mar 2026 - 11:59 (Europe/London)
Country: United Kingdom
Type of Contract: Temporary
Job Status: Full‑time
Hours Per Week: 35
Offer Starting Date: 16 Jan 2026
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe
Salary: ÂŁ50,733 per annum pro rata
FTE: 1.0
Term: Fixed for 36 months
Closing Date: 2 March 2026
The Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions (MSCA) funded “Advanced Network Connectivity using Harmonious Optical and Radio Technologies (ANCHOR)” project brings together leading academic, industry stakeholders, and SMEs to establish a structured doctoral training program addressing critical technical challenges and skill shortages for next‑generation of communications networks.
The ANCHOR consortium consists of 12 leading universities and research institutes across several European countries, along with a number of associated industrial and academic partners worldwide. ANCHOR has meticulously designed fifteen doctoral projects that focus on cutting‑edge innovations in optical, radio, and THz wireless communications and the harmonization of coexisting spectra and networks.
Through these efforts, ANCHOR will not only deepen fundamental theories but also provide practical, scalable solutions to improve 3‑D coverage, mobility, latency, network capacity, energy efficiency, and suitability for the future telecommunications infrastructure.
By fostering cross‑sector/cross‑border collaboration in next‑generation communication systems and digital infrastructure, ANCHOR will contribute significantly to the Horizon Europe priorities under the Digital, Industry, and Space Cluster. The project also directly supports the EU’s Digital Decade goals by driving the development of sustainable, high‑capacity communication networks, contributing to Europe’s leadership in the digital economy.
ANCHOR’s doctoral candidates will be guided by leading experts from academia and industry through well‑structured projects, secondments, and training activities. This comprehensive approach ensures that the candidates acquire the multidisciplinary knowledge and skills required to address real‑world challenges, drive innovation in wireless networks, and develop promising personal careers.
More information on the project: Project Link
ANCHOR consortium is looking for highly motivated, outstanding doctoral candidates (DCs) with the skills, knowledge and enthusiasm to contribute to the innovation and technological advancement of next‑generation communication networks. DCs enrolled in the program will have opportunities to work and collaborate with world‑leading researchers from the consortium partners, participate in secondments across academia and industry, and develop a comprehensive skill set through a well‑structured training program and cross‑sector supervision, which will prepare you for successful careers in both academic and industrial environments.
At the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, we offer DC positions focused on optical wireless communications. DC1.1 will work on designing high‑speed, high‑density, user‑position‑aware mobile optical wireless systems, while DC1.3 will focus on beyond‑line‑of‑sight communication in the far‑ultraviolet wavelength range.
As part of the ANCHOR programme, you will be expected to undertake secondments in both academic and industrial environments. To be considered for the position, candidates are required to have a suitable degree in a relevant field of study, must not already hold a doctoral degree, and be able to demonstrate relevant skills and knowledge.
Full details of the criteria are given below in the list of essential and desirable criteria. The MSCA funding of this position has the additional requirement that DCs must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary (i.e. the UK for DC1.1 and DC1.3) for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their date of recruitment. Compulsory national service, short stays such as holidays, and time spent as part of a procedure for obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention are not taken into account.
Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to iop@strath.ac.uk or Sujan Rajbhandari, Senior Lecturer (sujan.rajbhandari@strath.ac.uk).
ANCHOR Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Candidate DC1.1 DC1.3 (2 posts) employer: University of Strathclyde
Contact Detail:
University of Strathclyde Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land ANCHOR Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Candidate DC1.1 DC1.3 (2 posts)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former doctoral candidates in the ANCHOR programme. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of optical wireless communications. Be ready to discuss how your skills align with the cutting-edge innovations the ANCHOR project is all about.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to chat with potential supervisors or team members, let your passion for next-generation communication networks shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace ANCHOR Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Candidate DC1.1 DC1.3 (2 posts)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the ANCHOR project. We want to see your passion for optical wireless communications and how you can contribute to our innovative goals.
Showcase Relevant Experience: Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us about specific projects or experiences that relate to the role. Whether it’s research, internships, or relevant coursework, we want to know how you’ve prepared for this opportunity.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your enthusiasm shines through!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials correctly and can consider you for this exciting opportunity with the ANCHOR project.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Strathclyde
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of the ANCHOR project and its focus on optical wireless communications. Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in the field, especially regarding high-speed mobile systems and beyond-line-of-sight communication. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also your commitment to contributing meaningfully.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your relevant skills and knowledge that align with the requirements of the doctoral candidate positions. Be ready to provide examples from your academic or professional experiences that demonstrate your ability to tackle real-world challenges in communication networks.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the secondments, training activities, and collaboration opportunities within the ANCHOR consortium. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
✨Be Ready for Technical Discussions
Expect technical questions related to optics and wireless communications. Brush up on key concepts and be prepared to discuss how you would approach specific challenges in the field. Demonstrating your technical acumen will set you apart from other candidates.
