Senior Standards researcher for 6G Physical Layer

Join Nokia's Research & Innovation team as a Senior Standards Researcher, where you will be at the forefront of shaping the future of mobile communications. This role involves spearheading 6G research and standardization efforts, specifically focusing on the physical layer. You will lead innovation in 6G radio interface and access technologies, contribute to pioneering intellectual property, and represent Nokia in critical forums like 3GPP RAN1. The position requires a deep technical understanding of wireless systems, a strategic mindset for standardization, and a passion for embedding AI-first principles into next-generation mobile networks.

• 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.
• Act as Nokia’s delegated representative to 3GPP RAN1, taking ownership of technical contributions, agenda shaping, consensus building, and alignment of standardization outcomes with Nokia’s 6G research and business priorities.
• 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.

Must-Have:

• 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.
• 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.
• Demonstrated ability to serve as an effective 3GPP delegate, including technical authority, high-quality contribution delivery, active meeting participation, and internal stakeholder coordination.
• Fluent in English, both spoken and written.

Nice-to-Have:

• 5+ years of research experience in 6G-relevant radio topics.
• Prior 3GPP standardization experience.
• Proven track record in concept development, performance evaluation, and technical leadership in complex research programs and/or Standards Development Organizations (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.