Air Interface Architect
Open Cosmos Ltd.
Didcot, United Kingdom
18 days ago
Role details
Contract type
Permanent contract Employment type
Full-time (> 32 hours) Working hours
Regular working hours Languages
EnglishJob location
Didcot, United Kingdom
Tech stack
Multiplexing
Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)
Performance Testing
Application Specific Integrated Circuits
Modeling and Simulation
Job description
- Defining the end-to-end L1/L2 architecture for satellite communication systems aligned to 3GPP NR-NTN and DVB-S2X standards
- Translating LEO dynamics including Doppler effects, latency, beam movement, and visibility constraints into air interface requirements
- Driving waveform, numerology, frame structure, and resource allocation design for high spectral efficiency and throughput
- Defining coding, modulation, and link adaptation strategies across varying link and environmental conditions
- Architecting MAC layer protocols including scheduling, HARQ/ARQ, multiplexing, and resource management mechanisms
- Defining mobility and handover frameworks across satellites, gateways, and user terminals
- Specifying synchronisation mechanisms including timing advance and frequency pre-compensation strategies
- Supporting integration between the air interface and core network functions for NTN connectivity and mobility management
- Leading system-level and link-level modelling and simulation activities to validate performance and optimise design decisions
- Defining modem architecture and functional partitioning across FPGA/ASIC and software layers to support multi-waveform operation
- Contributing to future roadmap activities aligned with evolving 3GPP NTN and satellite communication standards
Requirements
- Deep understanding of wireless communication systems and PHY/MAC layer architecture principles
- Strong knowledge of 3GPP New Radio NTN standards and familiarity with DVB-S2X
- Understanding of waveform design, numerology, frame structures, and resource allocation mechanisms
- Knowledge of channel coding and modulation techniques including LDPC, Polar, BCH, and Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM)
- Strong understanding of link adaptation, CSI-driven optimisation, and power control strategies
- Knowledge of MAC layer protocols including scheduling, HARQ/ARQ, and resource multiplexing in high-latency environments
- Understanding of mobility management and synchronisation within highly dynamic communication systems
- Capability to translate orbital dynamics and LEO constraints into robust air interface specifications
- Proficiency in system-level and link-level modelling and simulation for performance validation and optimisation
- Understanding of modem architecture and partitioning between FPGA/ASIC and software-based implementations
- A systems-thinking mindset with the ability to balance performance, scalability, compliance, and real-world implementation considerations
This role will be based in any of our locations.
To apply, you must have the legal right to work in your chosen location.
When applying, please submit your CV in English.
About the company
At Open Cosmos we are solving the world's biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before - ready for the challenge? Then read on…
The Satcom team is responsible for the design, delivery and performance of Open Cosmos' satellite communications services, spanning the space segment, ground infrastructure and global connectivity.