Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

5G, the next generation mobile network, is anticipated to transform modern societies by providing an ultra-reliable, high-speed communications infrastructure that will connect more than 30 billion devices by 2020. As the complexity of such future networks will be unprecedented compared to earlier networks, their success is largely dependent on intelligent network management tools that can control their operation and reduce costs. In this project, we will develop a smart management solution suite for future 5G networks based on innovative machine learning and big data analytics techniques. The solutions will enable networks to be self-diagnosing and self-organizing and will enhance network capacity and user service while reducing capital and operating expenditures. The research will be carried out by a multidisciplinary team led by experts in mobile communications, machine learning and big data analytics, and navigation and positioning. Three PhD and four MSc students and two postdoctoral fellows will receive comprehensive training in applied machine intelligence and analytics, which are key assets for success in today's job market. The project will also be implemented and evaluated following the best industrial practices and rigor, facilitated by our industrial partner, Ericsson. Ericsson is a global leader in communication technologies, carrying 40% of the world's mobile traffic and employing approximately 23,700 employees in research and development activities. Our research will facilitate the adoption of sophisticated analytics-driven solutions for future 5G networks, and the lessons learned will provide valuable guidance for the design of networks beyond 5G as well. It will, therefore, position the Canadian telecommunications sector as a driver and leader in innovation, attracting further investments in research and development.