AI:X is an ambitious initiative at Aalborg University that aims to advance AI research and create real-world impact through interdisciplinary collaboration, and nine labs will be initiated in 2026 with a total of 18 PhD stipends. 

The AI:GeoComm Lab is part of the AI:X initiative with two PhD stipends and is a collaboration between the Department of Electronic Systems and the Department of Sustainability and Planning, hosted at the Technical Faculty of IT & Design.

Rain and humidity weaken wireless signals used for satellite internet and navigation. AI:GeoComm turns this problem into a solution by using signal changes to learn about the weather and take appropriate action. By combining AI with physics and real-time data, the project improves weather forecasts and makes communication systems more reliable, which is especially important for Denmark and Greenland.

The two stipends are open for appointment from 15 August 2026 or soon hereafter. The duration of the position is three years.
  
Your work tasks    

The AI:GeoComm Lab invites applications for two PhD positions, each contributing to the shared goal of developing advanced AI‑enhanced atmospheric sensing and communication reliability. The lab combines multimodal data sources, physical models, and advanced machine learning to create new forecasting and communication tools.

The lab is looking for candidates for the following two stipends:

Stipend 1: Atmospheric AI Modeling and Forecasting
This PhD position focuses on developing AI models that integrate real-time satellite communication signals, GNSS -based  atmospheric observations, and numerical weather prediction outputs. The first PhD will work on data fusion, feature extraction, and model development ranging from baseline approaches (e.g., gradient boosting) to deep learning architectures. The work also includes benchmark comparisons with operational meteorological models and collaborations with domain experts in geodesy and atmospheric science.

Specific requirements: Strong background in AI, machine learning, data science, atmospheric sciences, geophysics, or related fields. Solid numerical modelling and programming skills (e.g., Python, TensorFlow, scikit learn) are essential, along with a basic understanding of atmospheric modelling. Experience with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) or microwave remote sensing is desirable. Most importantly, you are motivated to apply and further develop your analytical skills.

Stipend 2:  AI Satellite Weather Sensing and Communications
This position focuses on developing AI models for the impact of atmospheric water vapor and precipitation on satellite communication links and on designing methods to sense, predict, and mitigate their effects. The candidate will evaluate the performance of communication systems under varying weather conditions, develop AI-based sensing protocols, and demonstrate forecast‑aware communication strategies in real-life space communication systems.

Specific requirements: A solid background in wireless communication systems, satellite communications, signal processing, or related fields at master’s level is essential. This includes a thorough understanding of the fundamentals, as well as modelling, simulation, and evaluation tools such as Python and/or Matlab. Experience with software-defined communication systems, emulation tools, and machine learning techniques is considered an advantage. Most importantly, you are eager to learn and apply machine learning and AI to design new communication protocols and strategies for satellite networks.
   
Your competencies   
We are looking for two motivated and curious PhD candidates. It is important the candidates enjoy working across disciplines and contributing to a shared research agenda. You should be excited about combining methods and perspectives from AI, atmospheric science, geodesy, and communication engineering, and thrive in a collaborative research environment. We value openness, initiative, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Strong interest in collaborative work and passionate to present the results in peer reviewed science journals.

Qualification requirements
PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years.

It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1124 of September 19, 2025 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions.

According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time. As part of the PhD study, you are among other things required to complete PhD courses corresponding to 30 ECTS, gain experience with teaching or other forms of knowledge dissemination and complete an external research stay outside of Aalborg University, preferably 3-6 months at a foreign research institution.

Who we are    
The PhD from stipend 1 will be hired into the Geodesy Group at Aalborg University. Our team works on satellite‑based Earth observation and atmospheric modelling. This group develops in‑house satellite, GNSS and atmospheric products, giving the PhD direct access to the data and expertise the project depends on. It is highly relevant for Stipend 1 because your AI‑driven forecasting work builds directly on the group’s deep knowledge of geodesy, data assimilation and atmospheric processes.

The PhD from stipend 2 will be hired into the Connectivity Section at Aalborg University, campus Aalborg East. Our team works on developing novel models and solutions for next-generation wireless communication systems, including beyond-5G and 6G, with a strong focus on satellite communications and networking. The work for Stipend 2 will greatly advance our leading research on the integration of sensing, computing, and communications on satellites with revolutionary AI techniques.  

The PhDs will be affiliated to AAU’s Space Tech Center, led by one of AI:GeoComm supervisors, enabling collaboration with researchers on space technologies across multiple departments and faculties at AAU. They will have access to state-of-the-art equipment to collect data to support their research on satellite technologies, including simulation, emulation, and practical setups to collect real-life measurements.

How to apply 
Your application must include the following:
o    Application, stating reasons for applying and qualifications in relation to the position, 
o    Curriculum Vitae (CV)
o    Diplomas (bachelor’s and master's degree diploma, including grades) 
o    Project description: A two-page project description outlining the motivation and intentions for the position is required. It should include a brief introduction to the topic of interest (stipend 1 or 2), state-of-the-art, relevant tools and techniques, and expected outcomes.
o    Other relevant documents

The application must be submitted via Aalborg University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aalborg University's website. 

Aalborg University wants to reflect the surrounding society and has diversity as a core value. Therefore, everyone, regardless of personal background and orientation, is encouraged to apply for the position. 

Do you have any questions?     
If you have any questions about the position, you are more than welcome to contact us. You will find contact persons at the bottom of the jobpost.

Further information  
Read more about our recruitment process here.

The assessment of candidates for the position will be carried out by qualified experts.
Shortlisting will be applied. This means that after the application deadline, the head of the department, with the assistance of the hiring committee, will select the applicants to be assessed. All applicants will be informed whether they have been shortlisted for assessment or not.

The hiring process at Aalborg University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires, ensuring the safety, compliance, and integrity of the workplace.

Read more about The Technical Doctoral School of IT and Design

Salary and terms of employment
The employment is in accordance with the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities (the Appointment Order) and the Ministerial Order on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities (in Danish).

Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state (AC collective agreement) (in Danish) 

Aalborg University - Knowledge for the world
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