The platforms, which each represent a £2m investment by EPSRC, will support UK research efforts in communications systems like 6G.

According to EPSRC, these platforms will pave the way for future communication networks which will enable the development of novel communications systems and the connectivity of larger academic, commercial, and international communities.

Interfaces of classic communication network elements

The first platform, ‘Network of Networks’ features TITAN which is a consortium of 17 universities, including Queen’s and led by the University of Strathclyde. TITAN will conduct unique and highly transformative research on the interfaces of classic communication network elements to achieve the seamless, open and fully integrated network of networks. 

The second platform, ‘Wireless and Wired Systems and Spectrum’ brings together eight partner universities, including Queen’s, and is led by the University of Oxford. This platform will address the challenge of providing high-speed, low-latency access to internet services for future fixed and mobile users.

The Centre for Wireless Innovation (CWI)  researchers involved are Professor Simon Cotton, Professor Michalis Matthaiou, Dr Hien Ngo and Dr Okan Yurduseven. The Centre for Wireless Innovation is located at Queen’s University’s ECIT Institute.

Professor Simon Cotton, director of  CWI, said: "To be part of, not one, but two of the future communication systems platforms is a significant achievement. It is testament to the pioneering research being undertaken at Queen's, especially in the area of physical layer wireless.

"Through the platforms we will have the opportunity to work with leading researchers from across the UK as we work towards a common goal of innovating the next generation of wireless systems, such as 6G, right here in the UK."  

Director of Research Base for the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), Jane Nicholson, said: “Digital communications infrastructure underpins the UK’s economy of today and tomorrow and these projects will help support the jobs and industry of the future.

"Everybody relies on secure and swift networking and EPSRC is committed to backing the research which will advance these technologies.”

Technologies that underpin future 6G

Director of the LiFi Research and Centre and Professor Harald Haas from the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow said: “While connectivity remains a key driver for economic growth, the global race for technologies that underpin future 6G and the metaverse has begun.

"I am thrilled to be working with more than 40 academic colleagues to jointly advance the diverse communication network technologies towards a fully inter-operable open network of networks.

"I am also delighted to work with future industry partners to shape standardisation of communication networks and to translate broad research excellence into creating wider industrial impact.”

Professor Dominic O’Brien, engineering science, University of Oxford, said: “Reliable, high-speed communications is a key part of our national infrastructure. Our hub partners are looking forward to working with the other hubs, industry and government to help address the challenge of creating the future generations of these vital systems.”