Resource optimal link scheduling scheme for data delivery in marine applications using Space-Air-Ground-Sea Integrated Networks SAGSIN

6G Space-Air-Ground-Sea Integrated Networks (SAGSIN) are envisioned to connect satellite, aerial, ground, and sea networks to provide connectivity everywhere and all the time. However, how to coordinate these networks and manage heterogeneous resources to satisfy the requirements of different applications remains to be solved. In this project, we investigate the resource management-based link scheduling in SAGSIN for marine applications. The major enabler for these applications is the provision of low-delay, and reliable wireless coverage to the ever-increasing number of underwater sensors. In fact, once marine data are generated by underwater sensors, it can be scheduled to access an appropriate network of SAGSIN and an appropriate node on that network while respecting the link lifetime, energy efficiency and latency to ensure efficient delivery to the onshore station. Indeed, forwarding this data in a multihop scheme to reach first the surface ships or buoys won’t be enough to ensure delivery to the onshore station. Thus, a possible data transfer to specially launched UAVs with a preplanned trajectory may facilitate delivery to the final destination. Given that UAVs are energy constrained, offloading the data to satellites that can reach the onshore station wherever deployed either directly or through terrestrial IoT networks is an attractive solution. Given the mobility and resource constraint of the underwater sensors, UAVs, and satellites, along with their sensitivity to environmental conditions, deriving the optimal link to be used at each layer at every time is a challenging large scale scheduling problem.

The successful candidate will work closely with expert researchers and contribute to high-impact publications. This studentship is an exciting opportunity to develop innovative AI solutions that will enhance coverage of hard-to-reach areas, real time data delivery, and UAVs trajectory planning, shaping the future of 6G SAGSIN communication.

Applicants should have a first or upper second class honours degree in an appropriate subject and preferably a relevant Masters qualification. Applications from both UK and overseas students are welcome.

The studentship is supported for 3.5 years and includes full Home tuition fees, Bench fee plus a stipend of £20,780 per annum 2025/26 rate. The studentship will only fully fund those applicants who are eligible for Home fees with relevant qualifications. Applicants normally required to cover International fees will have to cover the difference between the Home and the International tuition fee rates. The international component of the fee may be waived for outstanding international applicants.

There is no additional funding available to cover NHS Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) costs, visa costs, flights etc.

NB: The studentship is supported for 3.5 years of the four-year registration period. The subsequent 6 months of registration is a self-funded ‘writing-up’ period.

If you wish to discuss this project further informally, please contact Dr Fatma Bouabdallah at fatma.bouabdallah@plymouth.ac.uk.

Please see our apply for a postgraduate research programme page for a list of supporting documents to upload with your application.

For more information on the admissions process generally, please contact research.degree.admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 28 March 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview shortly thereafter. We regret that we may not be able to respond to all applications. Applicants who have not received a response within six weeks of the closing date should consider their application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.