Embedded Systems Researcher

The Space Communications (SpaceComms) Research Group is currently participating in different activities that conform to the New Space Strategy of Catalonia. This strategy aims at promoting the space ecosystem in the catalan region and developing novel technologies that reach the market to boost private and public initiatives. Among the different activities in the strategy, the research and development ones are key to achieve the strategy goal.

SpaceComms is conducting different projects in its New Space research programme, centered in pillar technologies: (1) integration of satellite systems in 5G infrastructure to conform NTN; (2) contributions to Software Defined Networks deployments in satellite constellations; and (3) developments of Inter-Satellite Link technologies. The research programme envisions to validate these developed technologies in dedicated CubeSat missions, that can additionally provide novel services to the catalan region.

As an Embedded Systems Research Engineer at i2CAT, you will lead the development of advanced communication systems for CubeSat missions, combining embedded software design, FPGA implementations, and AI algorithms. This position is essential for advancing the Space Communications department's capabilities in intelligent radio communications and high-performance signal processing for high altitude platforms and satellite applications.

Responsibilities of the candidate:

• Design and implement embedded software and FPGA solutions for intelligent satellite communication systems, with emphasis on AI-driven Inter-Satellite Links and NTN integration.
• Develop efficient implementations of machine learning algorithms for embedded processors and FPGAs in space applications.
• Create optimized embedded software architectures for real-time signal processing and protocol stack implementation.
• Design and implement SDR architectures integrating embedded processors with FPGA accelerators.
• Lead research activities in intelligent radio technologies for space applications, including 5G/6G integration.
• Publish research findings in prestigious conferences and journals in the field.

To drive technological innovation of the "Flexible Payload" asset through the convergence of embedded AI, software-defined radio, and FPGA acceleration, enabling the next generation of adaptive space communications while positioning i2CAT as a leader in 6G space integration.

Who we are:

The i2CAT Foundation is a non-profit research and innovation center that promotes mission-driven R&D activities on advanced Internet architectures, applications, and services. More than 15 years of international research define our expertise in the fields of 5G, IoT, VR, and Immersive Technologies, Cybersecurity, Blockchain, AI, and Digital Social Innovation. The center partners with companies, public administration, academia, and end-users to leverage this knowledge in order to meet real social and business challenges.

The greatest value of i2CAT is the talent of the people who make up our human team. We enjoy a team of people from more than 13 different nationalities and work every day to create and foster a work environment where we all feel comfortable creating, innovating and growing.

Want to know more? Visit our webpage! www.i2cat.net

What will you enjoy?

• Work from our offices or from home, whichever works best for you. We only ask for one day in person at the office to coordinate with the rest of the team.
• This is a full-time vacancy.
• We have a flexible work schedule respecting your work-life balance.
• Reduced working hours on Fridays and in July and August.
• Fix + variable salary based on objectives.
• You decide wether you preferr to receive your salary in 12 or 14 payments.
• Optional benefits: Configure your salary according to your needs. We offer you the option of restaurant vouchers, public transport vouchers, nursery services, and medical insurance.
• Annual leave of 27 working days.
• We have fruit in the office to promote a healthy lifestyle
• Free coffee and tea.
• If you are interested, you can participate in events of your sector.
• You will work with a laptop. You can choose your operative system, Mac, Linux or Windows.
• Company social and team-building events (virtual & in-person).
• You can develop your own and personal training programme with our support.
• We will work so that you have a career plan to promote your growth and development.

Where will you do it?

At i2CAT we already have an established ‘work-from-home’ policy for some time. You can work from home or from the office, whichever suits you best. We expect that you attend the office one day per week to stay connected with your team and to engage with other colleagues

If you decide to come to the office, we are located in Zona Universitària, next to the Campus Nord of the UPC, within a multidisciplinary and multicultural environment. It is a very well-connected area (metro, tram, bus) with bars and restaurants around.

Our offices are designed with an open-office concept where everything is light and transparency. We have a variety of workspaces so that you don't have to be at the same table all day.

i2CAT is an organization committed to equal opportunities. That is why we seek to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented, and therefore explicitly encourage female candidates to apply.

I2CAT is an organization committed to creating an environment where we celebrate diversity, and where we provide the dedicated support that our employees need, regardless of their disability.

If what you have read sounds good to you... let’s have a coffee and we will tell you more!

In case you liked it, but it is not your job offer, you may know someone else who fits perfectly and whom you would like to recommend!