Air Interface Architect

Air Interface Architect Aim high, go beyond! At Open Cosmos we are solving the world’s biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before - ready for the challenge? Then read on… The Satcom team is responsible for the design, delivery and performance of Open Cosmos’ satellite communications services, spanning the space segment, ground infrastructure and global connectivity. As our Satcom capability continues to grow, we’re now looking for an Air Interface Architect to define and govern the end-to-end PHY and MAC layer architecture underpinning our LEO communication system, shaping how high-performance, scalable connectivity is delivered across the constellation. What will you be doing? Defining the end-to-end L1/L2 architecture for satellite communication systems aligned to 3GPP NR-NTN and DVB-S2X standards Translating LEO dynamics including Doppler effects, latency, beam movement, and visibility constraints into air interface requirements Driving waveform, numerology, frame structure, and resource allocation design for high spectral efficiency and throughput Defining coding, modulation, and link adaptation strategies across varying link and environmental conditions Architecting MAC layer protocols including scheduling, HARQ/ARQ, multiplexing, and resource management mechanisms Defining mobility and handover frameworks across satellites, gateways, and user terminals Specifying synchronisation mechanisms including timing advance and frequency pre-compensation strategies Supporting integration between the air interface and core network functions for NTN connectivity and mobility management Leading system-level and link-level modelling and simulation activities to validate performance and optimise design decisions Defining modem architecture and functional partitioning across FPGA/ASIC and software layers to support multi-waveform operation Contributing to future roadmap activities aligned with evolving 3GPP NTN and satellite communication standards What You’ll bring Deep understanding of wireless communication systems and PHY/MAC layer architecture principles Strong knowledge of 3GPP New Radio NTN standards and familiarity with DVB-S2X Understanding of waveform design, numerology, frame structures, and resource allocation mechanisms Knowledge of channel coding and modulation techniques including LDPC, Polar, BCH, and Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM) Strong understanding of link adaptation, CSI-driven optimisation, and power control strategies Knowledge of MAC layer protocols including scheduling, HARQ/ARQ, and resource multiplexing in high-latency environments Understanding of mobility management and synchronisation within highly dynamic communication systems Capability to translate orbital dynamics and LEO constraints into robust air interface specifications Proficiency in system-level and link-level modelling and simulation for performance validation and optimisation Understanding of modem architecture and partitioning between FPGA/ASIC and software-based implementations A systems-thinking mindset with the ability to balance performance, scalability, compliance, and real-world implementation considerations This role will be based in any of our locations. To apply, you must have the legal right to work in your chosen location. When applying, please submit your CV in English. Why Open Cosmos? Work at the cutting edge of space technology with customers around the globe A mission-driven company making space accessible to help solve real-world challenges A diverse, ambitious, and supportive team Division CRO Department SATCOM (Broadband and Narrowband) Locations Harwell, UK, Athens, Greece, Barcelona, Spain, Porto, Portugal Remote status Hybrid Employment type Full-time About Open Cosmos Open Cosmos is dedicated to solving customer problems with insights from space. Whether this is monitoring agricultural yields, assessing the damage of oil spills or providing navigation solutions, we believe that data from satellites is the most effective and sustainable way of achieving this.