The University of Huddersfield (www.hud.ac.uk) has been awarded funding of more than 1 million euros for its central role in a Europe-wide project (involving 10 academic and industrial partners) to train a new generation of experts in 5G networks.

The focus will be on: embedding artificial intelligence into 5G systems; the use of drone-based technology to improve communications; and new ‘beam-forming’ antennae that will direct a separate beam towards every mobile-phone user.

The project is called MOTOR5G — Mobility and Training for beyond 5G Ecosystems.

The EU’s Horizon 2020 programme was impressed by the proposal document, awarding it a rare 100% rating and confirming total funding of 3,979,000 euros, of which the biggest single share (1,212,690 euros) will be allotted to the University of Huddersfield.

The research will be led by Pavlos Lazaridis, and four researchers will be based at the University of Huddersfield for laboratory work and theoretical study (as well as spend significant amounts of time with the other project partners).

For example, they will research antennae at Munich-based Rohde & Schwarz, and they will train in metrology at the UK’s National Physical Laboratory.

They will also be involved in an experimental 5G network and video production facility at the Olympic Stadium in Athens.