Named Data and Network Functions in Future Mobile Internet

Information Centric Networking is an emerging networking approach that aims to address many of the shortcomings inherent in the existing Internet Protocol. Today, one approach to Information Centric Networking, being developed in parallel by two projects: Content-Centric Networking (CCN) and Named Data Networking (NDN), appears to be gaining mindshare in the research community and in industry, and promises to significantly improve network scalability and performance, and reduce cost over a network built on the Internet Protocol. CCN/NDN provides native, and elegant, support for client mobility, multipath connectivity, multicast delivery and in-network caching, many of which are critical for current and future networks, and all of which require inefficient and/or complex managed overlays when implemented in IP. Further, CCN/NDN provides a much richer addressing framework than that which exists in IP (which could eliminate significant sources of routing complexity), and it provides a fundamentally more secure communication model, even for in-the-clear communications.

The 5G Innovation Centre hosted at the University of Surrey is the world's first dedicated to the next generation of mobile communication systems and an international hub for telecommunication research and innovation. The Centre collaborates with key ICT service providers, network and device manufacturers and test equipment solution providers to develop innovative solutions and standards for 5G networks. This studentship is funded by CableLabs (http://www.cablelabs.com/) as a 5GIC partner.

Candidates should hold a first or upper-second class Bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree at distinction level (or equivalent experience/qualifications) in an appropriate discipline. This PhD position will investigate open research issues relevant to the applications of named data networking and/or named network functions in 5G mobile networks, potentially including mobile content routing and caching, service chaining of named network functions, and transition technologies.

Applications should include 1) a cover letter; 2) a curriculum vitae; 3) an outline research proposal in the targeted area;  4) contact details of two academic referees; 5) copies of acedemic transcripts and qualification certificates.

Closing date for applications is: 31 of March 2018 and the interview of shortlisted candidates will be carried out in April 2018. It is the intention that successful applicants would commence their programme in July/October 2018.

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