Research | Emerging Radio Systems Group

By studying semiconductor devices, high-performance circuits, and innovative systems, the Emerging Radio Systems Group (EmRG) advances four connected lines of research.

Broadband communication

Designing linear and efficient multi-band and wide-band power amplifiers based on GaN technology.

Efficiency and linearity

Developing novel amplification and linearization schemes that improve the energy and spectral efficiency of wireless links in challenging transmission scenarios.

Modelling and measurement

Advancing the science of nonlinear circuit modelling and measurement to optimize radiofrequency hardware design and cut costly design iterations.

Standards interoperability

Devising re-configurable power amplifiers for multi-standard transmitters, supporting interoperability and reducing future network migration costs.

Our research groups

EmRG is organised into three groups, but they work on one continuous problem. Our approach spans device, circuit and system design: the Circuit Group develops the amplifiers, beamformers and frequency-conversion circuits; the Antenna Systems Group builds them into phased arrays and massive MIMO systems; and the Digital Signal Processing Group develops the modelling, linearization and calibration algorithms that let that hardware meet its specifications. Each group sets the constraints the others design against, and every prototype is characterized in the same laboratory.

Die photograph of the D-band frequency doubler with driver amplifier

Amplifiers, beamformers, frequency-conversion and electronically tunable circuits, together with circuit-level linearization, for terrestrial and non-terrestrial radios from a few GHz up to sub-THz.

Rendering of a modular large-scale active phased array antenna for SATCOM with heatsink

PCB-based active phased arrays, digital beamforming massive MIMO and 3D-printed antenna systems, with packaging, system integration and electrothermal-mechanical co-design.

16-element phased array under test in the EmRG anechoic chamber

Algorithms and their hardware implementations — behavioural modelling, linearization, calibration and MIMO signal processing — that let RF front-ends and beamforming systems meet their specifications.

From 5G to 6G

Building on our extensive portfolio of 5th Generation (5G) breakthroughs and innovations in the areas above, we have launched new projects and are looking for enthusiastic candidates to assist us in tackling the research challenges of the upcoming 6th Generation (6G).

In the laboratory

The advanced test and measurement equipment in the EmRG laboratory enables our team to transform concepts into reality with exceptional accuracy and reliability. Our industry-focused, collaborative approach to research offers unique opportunities for training highly qualified personnel.

Publications

The group’s complete record — journal articles, conference papers and graduate theses from 2002 onward — is listed year by year on the Publications page. Patents and invited talks are on the Outcomes page.