BIT Lab is expanding its research on advanced error control coding systems for communication networks, with a focus on graph-based coding and polar coding (but not limited to). We welcome applications from 2nd and 3rd year undergraduate students in the Applied Mathematics who have a solid foundation in linear algebra (or abstract algebra), advanced calculus, and probability theory, and who are willing to pursue a master’s degree in our lab at Communications Engineering of CCU. If you are eager to explore fun research and grow with a supportive team, we invite you to join us. Please see the details below for more information.
Project Description: Modern wireless communication has rapidly evolved from traditional point-to-point links to complex multi-user network settings. While random coding techniques have demonstrated theoretical success in achieving reliable communication, there remains a significant gap in practical error control coding, especially for systems constrained by short blocklengths and low computational complexity. This research project aims to design and analyze finite-length error correction codes tailored for some network scenarios, such as multiple access channels, broadcast channels, interference channels, relay channels, and two-way channels. We seek coding strategies that are not only theoretically sound but also practical in terms of decoding complexity, latency, and implementation feasibility. This project may also be extended to explore how machine learning techniques can aid in the design of coding systems. Through their training in BIT Lab, students are expected to develop strong skills in critical thinking, self-directed learning, problem-solving, and programming.
Caution: This project does not involve any hardware implementation (keyword: IC). If your life goal is simply to make money, this may not be the right fit. We are looking for students with curiosity, passion, and a genuine interest in communication theory and coding research.
Eligibility: We invite 2nd or 3rd (二下或三上)year undergraduate students from the Applied Mathematics Department who:
Love rigor math and have experience in programming (C language is preferred)
Have a strong background in Linear Algebra and Probability Theory (good advanced calculus foundation is a plus)
Are interested in learning digital communication systems and willing to pursue a master’s degree at BIT Lab
Rank within the top 20% of their class (negotiable for those within the top 30% with strong motivation) and must have passed all mandatory courses up to their current year of study
Have the passion and patience to explore open-ended research problems with curiosity
Open Positions: 2 (maximum)
Application Due: 12/01 (first come, first served)
Final Remark: This special recruitment is not associated with any specific ongoing research project. Although BIT Lab is a small research group, the goal of this recruitment is not to fill manpower gaps. Instead, we are sincerely looking for motivated, responsible, and curious partners who are eager to grow with us and contribute to a meaningful, long-term research collaboration.
What is error control coding?
Error control coding is a method used in digital communication and storage systems to detect and correct errors that occur during data transmission or storage. By adding carefully designed redundancy to the original data through an encoding process, the receiver can identify and often correct errors introduced by noise or interference in the channel. This ensures reliable data recovery even in imperfect conditions. Common techniques include error detection codes like cyclic-redundant-check (CRC) and error correction codes such as Hamming, BCH, RS, LDPC, Turbo, and Polar codes, which are widely applied in wireless communication, digital media, and data storage systems.
A textbook suitable for the math background is listed here for your reference. You can find more online if you are interested.
R. Roth, Introduction to Coding Theory, Cambridge Press, 2006.
What are multi-user communication networks?
Multi-user communication models describe how information is transmitted between multiple senders and receivers. Multiple access channels (MACs) involve multiple transmitters sending information to a common receiver, such as in uplink cellular communication. Broadcast channels (BCs), by contrast, feature a single transmitter sending distinct messages to multiple receivers, as seen in downlink transmission. Relay channels include intermediate nodes that assist in forwarding messages from source to destination, improving coverage or reliability. Interference channels model situations where multiple transmitter-receiver pairs communicate simultaneously and interfere with each other, such as in shared spectrum environments. Lastly, two-way channels allow two users to exchange information in both directions over the same channel, capturing the essence of bidirectional communication systems.
If you are interested in BIT Lab and meet the above requirements, please contact me via jjweng [at] ccu.edu.tw (writing in Mandarin is perfectly fine).
Subject: [Special Hiring 2025] Dept.-Your Name
Contents:
Motivation: Clearly explain why you are applying for this position (be specific and concrete);
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