Senior Standards researcher, 6G Physical Layer

Senior Standards researcher, 6G Physical Layer

Flexibility with locations across multiple countries is indicated by the posting, with a hybrid work arrangement noted. The role focuses on leading 6G radio research, standardization, and development of PHY/L1 architectures within Nokia's 6G program.

Your responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end 6G radio research, integrating MIMO, initial access, RF performance, AI native PHY design, advanced Layer 1 control, and coexistence considerations to enable scalable, intelligent, and regulation compliant 6G systems.
• Validate novel radio access concepts and algorithms through link-level and system-level simulations, including performance evaluation, benchmarking, and design optimization.
• Develop pioneering 6G intellectual property, including MIMO, initial access, RF performance, AI native PHY techniques, and advanced L1 control signaling
• Embed AI first principles into 6G standards research, defining robust evaluation methodologies for AI enabled PHY validation aligned with regulatory and compliance requirements.
• Represent and champion Nokia’s technical leadership in 3GPP and external research forums, advocating next generation PHY/L1 architectures.
• Shape Nokia’s 6G technology and standards strategy, contributing to long term research roadmaps across MIMO, initial access, RF performance, AI radio, coexistence frameworks, and PHY/L1 control, aligned with business and ecosystem priorities.
• Collaborate closely with RAN Protocols, RF, regulatory, and system teams to ensure coherent evolution from research concepts to product relevant technologies.

Your skills and experience

• Strong system level expertise in 5G and/or emerging 6G systems.
• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in electrical engineering, communications, signal processing, or a related field.
• Proven capability in developing, enhancing, and using link-level and system-level simulators for wireless research and standardization activities.
• Strong understanding of 3GPP standardization processes, including contribution preparation and review, specification analysis, change request (CR) handling, and cross-working-group collaboration.
• Strong expertise in MIMO receiver and CSI feedback design, implementation, and performance optimization, including baseband signal processing, channel estimation, impairment handling, architecture, simulation setup and evaluation, feature optimization, and troubleshooting across a wide range of configurations and deployment scenarios.
• Deep understanding of radio access systems and associated technology challenges.
• Solid grasp of radio product portfolios and wireless business strategy.
• Familiarity with AI driven research methodologies, including data driven and agentic workflows.
• Prior 3GPP standardization experience is preferred.

Ideal Background

• 5+ years of research experience in 6G relevant radio topics.
• Proven track record in concept development, performance evaluation, and technical leadership in complex research programs and/or Standards Development Organization such as e.g. 3GPP, ATIS.
• Experience working in multinational and cross cultural environments.
• Strong ability to operate in highly complex, innovation driven organizations.
• Proactive in scouting, assessing, and applying state of the art research results.
• Fluent in English, both spoken and written.

Personal Attributes

• Strong technical depth combined with influencing and communication skills.
• Excellent networking and collaboration abilities across organizational boundaries.
• Open minded, adaptable, and resilient in fast evolving research and standardization environments.
• Analytical and structured, with the ability to cut through complexity and prioritize effectively.
• Passion for continuous learning and professional growth.
• Strong results orientation and willingness to take on new challenges.

More information

Some of our benefits:

• Flexible and hybrid working schemes
• A minimum of 90 days of Maternity and Paternity Leave, with the option to return to work within a year following the birth or adoption of a child (based on eligibility)
• Life insurance to all employees to provide peace of mind and financial security
• Well-being programs to support your mental and physical health
• Opportunities to join and receive support from Nokia Employee Resource Groups (NERGs)
• Employee Growth Solutions to support your personalized career & skills development
• Diverse pool of Coaches & Mentors to whom you have easy access
• A learning environment which promotes personal growth and professional development - for your role and beyond

Learn about additional benefits in specific countries.

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