The research project “PICSOC” has started at the University of Cyprus, aiming to develop cutting-edge technologies for future sixth-generation (6G) networks, with funding from the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF).
According to a University announcement, the project has a duration of two years and is funded with €200,000 by the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation, under the program “Islands of Excellence.” The coordinator of the program is Postdoctoral Researcher Dimitrios Kastritsis (EMPHASIS). The academic supervisor of the program is Professor Stavros Iezekiiel from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE).
This project will be implemented at the Microwave Photonics Research Laboratory of the University of Cyprus and will build upon activities already funded at the laboratory by the European Space Agency (ESA) with the aim of applying them in new fields, specifically in the production of ultra-high-frequency RF signals for terrestrial 6G systems.
PICSOC will develop photonic integrated circuits (PICs) based on indium phosphide (InP), using available fabrication services for the production of the PICs. The main roles of the University of Cyprus will be the design and simulation of the PIC and the subsequent characterization of the PIC, as well as the overall proposed system. The goal is to produce signals at extremely high frequencies, such as those required for future 6G networks—with an emphasis on stability and transmission accuracy.
This will be achieved, as noted in the announcement, through the implementation of a self-oscillating optical frequency comb in an optoelectronic oscillator topology. It is anticipated that the application of photonic millimeter-wave (mmW) signal generation on PICs will lead to reliable and compact units with low power consumption compared to current alternative implementations.
“By aiming to create an Island of Excellence for the development of photonic integrated circuits for 6G networks, the PICSOC project strengthens Cyprus’ position on the international innovation map and creates the conditions for the development of advanced solutions in critical technology areas such as the Internet of Things and next-generation communications,” the announcement concludes.
