Research ThemesAutonomous Sensing PlatformsSensor Signal ProcessingAimTo develop a software and hardware system that uses real and predicted motion data to simulate how mobile satellite terminals behave, enabling realistic, lab-based testing for defence communications using Heriot-Watt’s ground station.ObjectivesDevelop an IMU-based system to record real motion data from vehicles, such as cars, UAVs, or marine platforms.Design a software package that uses this motion data to control an antenna positioner and simulate real-world movement.Create machine learning models that can detect motion patterns and predict future movement to improve tracking accuracy.Test and evaluate satellite terminals under simulated motion using Heriot-Watt’s ground station to measure performance in realistic defence scenarios.DescriptionThis project focuses on improving how satellite communication systems for defence are tested and developed. Mobile platforms such as military vehicles, UAVs, and naval vessels require satellite links that remain stable under motion and in harsh environments, such as urban canyons, mountainous terrain, or contested electromagnetic environments with jamming or multipath interference. Testing these systems in the field can be expensive and hard to repeat. This PhD will develop a lab-based testing system that uses real motion data, recorded from vehicles using inertial sensors (IMUs), to control a robotic antenna positioner (hexapod). The system will also use machine learning to recognise patterns and predict future motion, allowing more advanced testing of how terminals behave. By using Heriot-Watt’s satellite ground station and hexapod equipment, the system will allow realistic and repeatable testing of terminals for defence use, helping to improve resilience, tracking, and performance before deployment. Further information Scientists to develop next-generation satellite user terminal for affordable global connectivityhttps://www.hw.ac.uk/news/2025/scientists-to-develop-next-generation-satellite-user-terminal-for-affordable-global-connectivityUK technology consortium for Mobility and Autonomy Market User Terminal (MAMUT)https://microwaves.site.hw.ac.uk/uk-technology-consortium-to-develop-mobility-and-autonomy-market-user-terminal-mamut-led-by-excelerate-technology-group-heriot-watt-university-satraka-ltd-and-jet-connectivity-and-backed-by-th/ Closing date: Sat, 31/01/2026 - 12:00 Apply now Principal Supervisor Dr Spyridon Daskalakis Assistant Supervisor Prof Antonis Giannopoulos Dr George Goussetis Eligibility Minimum entry qualification - an Honours degree at 2:1 or above (or International equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline, possibly supported by an MSc Degree. Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants. Funding Home rate fees and stipend are available for this position.
