I am Yakubu Bunyaminu, currently pursuing a cotutelle PhD program at IMT Atlantique (France) and Carleton University (Canada).
Who are you and what is your background?
My academic journey in wireless communications began with my master’s degree in electronic engineering from Hanbat National University in South Korea, where I focused on full-duplex cell-free massive MIMO systems with low-resolution ADCs. During my master's research, I developed strong analytical skills in wireless communications theory and performance analysis, particularly in exploring complex MIMO architectures.
My educational path reflects my growing interest in advanced wireless communication systems and their evolution. The transition from studying massive MIMO systems during my master's to now exploring future 6G technologies in my PhD demonstrates my commitment to staying at the forefront of wireless communications research. I appreciate the opportunity to work in diverse international research environments, having studied in South Korea and continuing my academic journey between France and Canada.
What are the big challenges to be tackled and possible future impacts?
My PhD research focuses on integrating Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) and Machine Learning techniques for communication systems operating in the Terahertz (THz) frequency bands, specifically targeting future 6G networks. This research combines three cutting-edge areas of wireless communications: RIS technology, which allows for programmable control of the propagation environment; THz communications, which promises unprecedented bandwidth and data rates; and machine learning approaches to optimize system performance.
The project addresses theoretical and practical challenges in implementing RIS-assisted THz communications. We will develop comprehensive models for RIS-assisted communication schemes over THz channels, analyze their theoretical performance limits, and create practical implementation strategies. The research includes investigating propagation phenomena in THz channels, optimizing RIS configurations, and developing machine learning algorithms to enhance system performance. Our goal is to bridge the gap between theoretical possibilities and practical implementations in future 6G networks.
What is the configuration of your PhD research?
The key challenges in this research include understanding and modeling the complex propagation phenomena in THz channels, developing efficient RIS implementation strategies that can work at such high frequencies, and creating practical machine-learning solutions that can operate within hardware constraints. One significant challenge is bridging the gap between theoretical models and real-world hardware limitations while maintaining system performance.
The potential impact of this research on digital transition is substantial. We can support future applications requiring ultra-high data rates and minimal latency by enabling more efficient and reliable communication in THz bands. This work contributes to the industrial transition by paving the way for smart factories and Industry 5.0 applications that require robust, high-speed wireless connectivity. From an environmental perspective, our research aims to develop energy-efficient communication solutions through optimized RIS configurations and intelligent resource allocation, potentially reducing the carbon footprint of future wireless networks.
After a few weeks embarked as PhD fellow at IMT Atlantique, what is your first feeling about the programme and your institution?
My PhD is structured as a cotutelle program between IMT Atlantique and Carleton University, with a duration of four years. I am currently at IMT Atlantique under the supervision of Prof. Samir Saoudi and Prof. Mustapha Benjillali. I will spend two years here before moving to Carleton University for another two years under Prof. Halim Yanikomeroglu's supervision. The program includes a planned three-month industrial internship with a major technology company (potentially Cisco, Telus, or IBM), though the specific partner is yet to be confirmed. This structure offers a unique opportunity to benefit from both European and North American research perspectives.
