Development of self-biased circulators for mobile communication systems

A circulator is a passive nonreciprocal device, in which a microwave or RF signal entering one port is unidirectionally transmitted to the next port only. Circulators usually have three or four ports and are required to protect RF front end of radio communications and radar systems. Conventional circulators are large in size due to the need of external permanent magnets. The main objective of this project is to develop a magnet-free low-profile self-biased circulator operating at relatively low RF frequencies (below 10 GHz). The project will be run in collaboration with material scientists and telecom engineers.

The project, funded by a major international telecom company for 2 years, will be undertaken at the High Frequency Engineering Group at the University of Liverpool which is a world-leading group in the field of RF/microwave engineering and device design. An interdisciplinary team in the Group has significant experience in the design and testing of RF/microwave devices for communications systems. We are seeking to appoint an intelligent and highly motivated individual with the strong background in RF/microwave engineering and device design to undertake this PhD research programme. A candidate should have a very good degree (1st or high 2.1 Class BEng or MSc) in electrical engineering, specialising in RF/microwave engineering and design. A good knowledge of RF circuit analysis techniques, RF simulators, and microwave materials is essential. He/she must be a technically competent and committed to work enthusiastically with the research team to develop and validate novel technologies for the development and design of high-performance self-biased circulators for mobile communications systems.

Application details:

To apply for this position please make application by 30 April 2021 with:

• A detailed CV,

• Supporting documents which should include one of your relevant papers or reports,

• Two reference letters commenting specifically on the educational background, qualifications relevant to the project scope and aptitude.

Please direct enquiries to: Prof Huang at yi.huang@liverpool.ac.uk