Research Fellow - Radar Signal Processing

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to November 2026

Applications are invited for a Research Fellow in radar signa processing. The role will involve developing signal processing algorithms for signal/parameter estimation and clutter cancellation in HF radar applications. The Research Fellow will be based in the Microwave Integrated Systems Lab (MISL) at the University of Birmingham and work as part of an international collaboration with researchers in Italy and Australia.

HF radar systems have the ability to detect and track targets beyond the horizon, at distances in the order of thousands of kilometres, thanks to a ionospheric reflection. Nevertheless, the ionospheric propagation channel introduces both spatial and temporal variabilities, which introduce signal distortions, making the target detection and tracking substantially more difficult than the case of line‑of‑sight propagation.

Standard signal processing typically fails in these conditions and specific algorithms must be studied, implemented, tested and validated to restore the required radar performances.

The successful applicant will have a fantastic opportunity working alongside a world leading MISL group at the University of Birmingham. MISL is the largest academic research team in the UK working in radar, remote sensing and signal processing. MISL is a unique collaborative environment delivering world‑class cutting‑edge research in the areas of radar, space domain awareness, sensors for situational awareness for autonomous platforms, and signal processing and AI‑based cognitive sensing.

• You will contribute to the development of signal parameter estimation and clutter cancellation algorithms.
• You will investigate the performance of the above algorithm when applied to both simulated and real data.

• Work within specified research projects
• Operate within area of specialism
• Analyse and interpret research findings and results
• Work in collaboration with international partners

• To develop, implement and evaluate signal parameter estimation and clutter cancellation algorithms.
• To engage with project partners regarding the design and integration of the software within the signal processing pipeline.
• To contribute to the dissemination of the project outcomes through reports to stakeholders.

• PhD (or close to completion) in electronic engineering or related field
• The ideal candidate will have experience in radar signal processing or similar signal processing (acoustic, imaging, etc)
• Ability to programme in MATLAB is desirable.
• Experience working with signal processing, with preference in radar signal processing.
• High level analytical capability.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
• Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project.
• Co‑ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort

Informal enquiries to Marco Martorella, email:

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment

We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

Closing date: 02/08/2026 23:59

£36,636 to £46,049. Grade 7