Wireless Communications

Wireless communication underpins almost every aspect of modern life, from the networks we rely on daily to the connected robotic and autonomous systems increasingly used in industry, infrastructure and public services.

As demand grows and technology evolves, so do the challenges. Networks must be faster, more reliable, more secure, and capable of connecting not just people but autonomous vehicles, drones, and robotic systems operating across land, air, and space. Our research addresses these challenges, developing the wireless communication systems that the connected world of tomorrow will depend on.

We develop efficient communication to and from terrestrial, aerial platforms and satellites, addressing challenges of 5G/6G and Advanced Connectivity Technologies.

Our wireless communications research and innovation is focussed on supporting increased use of connected robotic and autonomous systems. We span Technology Readiness Levels 2 - 7, from fundamental expertise through to leading use case testing.

KEY RESEARCH TOPICS

Open Radio Access Networks
AI for wireless systems
Terrestrial/non-terrestrial network integration
Secure and resilient radio networks

We specialise in: advanced waveform and system architecture design, dynamic spectrum access, 3D comms, and cell-free networks. Recent work includes integrated sensing and communications, and ensuring the integrity of position, navigation, and timing systems.

Robustient, developing ultra-reliable wireless connectivity, is set to be ISA’s first spin-out, pioneered by our team.

We are part of Lab of the North, one of nine founding partners from academia, industry, and local government, established for research, innovation, and testing projects.

Facilities

Viavi 5G and O-RAN test and measurement equipment.
O-RAN testbed with Benetel and SDR based Radio Units interfacing to commercial (IS-Wireless) and open-source software (SRS-RAN and OAI) interfacing to various 5G cores - in lab, and remote access to live installation in Blackpool Winter Gardens.
Cell-Free ultra-reliable 5G communications lab and remote installations.
5G Base station in a box for healthcare and temporary installations, with Ethernet backhaul interface.
Helikite aerial platform testbed - wireless communications and remote sensing payloads from 500g - 17kg - roof and lab base testing and remote access.
Suite of SDR radios, interfacing to Labview communications, GNU Radio and SRS-RAN.

Explore more of the facilities at ISA

ORLANDO

This project, funded by EPSRC, uses an AI-powered xApp within a network digital twin to predict and prevent congestion. By balancing real-time traffic loads, it optimises energy efficiency and enhances user service quality. Watch this video to find out more.

YO-RAN

YO-RAN unites Yorkshire universities and industry to develop interoperable, low-cost Open RAN technologies. Funded by DSIT, the project strengthens UK 6G capabilities while building a resilient telecom industry across the North of England.

REACH

REACH tackles mobile congestion in high-demand tourist hotspots. Through O-RAN trials in Blackpool and Yorkshire, the project tests small cells, massive MIMO, and cell-free technology to enhance regional data delivery

CHEDDAR

A national research hub advancing future communications and connectivity, exploring how communications systems can underpin next generation computing and how cloud systems and AI can bolster communications.

Lab of the North

Lab of the North unites the North of England's universities, industry and public sector to develop, test and deploy next-generation connectivity like 5G, 6G, and IoT, accelerating real-world innovation that transforms regional industries and communities.

Meet the team

Prof David Grace
Dr Hamed Ahmadi
Dr Poonam Yadav
Dr Yi Chu
Josh Shackleton
Prof Kanapathippillai Cumanan
Dr Abdulhamed Waraiet
Alister Burr

Work with us

We welcome opportunities for partnership with industry, academic institutions, funding bodies, policy-making organisations and individual and institutional donors.

Find out how you can work with us

For more information, contact Professor David Grace at david.grace@york.ac.uk.