Grant: Canada Research Chairs

While the current generation of wireless networks is being deployed across the world, new applications are emerging that will further transform the economy and society through intelligent transportation, intelligent healthcare, environmental monitoring, Industry beyond 4.0, reduction of digital divide across the globe, etc. Such transformations impose more stringent requirements on the wireless networks in terms of connectivity, latency, data rate, energy efficiency, reliability, and device density among others. The proposed Tier I Canada Research Chair in Ubiquitous Connectivity will develop a unique and vibrant research program to provide highly innovative solutions to the technical challenges posed by the evolution of wireless networks. In particular, it will focus on the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks and in this context, will help to answer critical questions related to: (i) communication and networking of swarms of unmanned aerial vehicles and high altitude platforms to complement terrestrial networks, while also providing edge intelligence and computing; (ii) utilization of fledgling technologies such as intelligent reflective/omni-surface and orthogonal time-frequency-space signaling to further extend coverage, reduce energy consumption, and improve the performance in high-mobility high-frequency operation; (iii) integration of sensing functionalities with communication, computing, and intelligence to supports the evolution to a perceptive network. The proposed CRC will strengthen Memorial University’s research capacity in its information and communication technology strategic research area; facilitate partnerships both within and external to the institution; strengthen existing collaborations with industry and other partners, and create new ones; and contribute to the training of highly qualified personnel. The proposed program will enhance Canada’s competitiveness and have national and international impact on the development of the next generation of wireless networks. This research will support and strengthen efforts to position Canada as a leader in the knowledge-based digital economy, while shaping the global governance of emerging information and communication technologies.