Research Associate Jobs in Coppell, TX

Job Description

Research & Innovation is seeking ambitious and highly engaged physical layer Radio Research Specialists to join our Physical Layer Standardization & Research team in Dallas. In this role, you will drive 6G research and standardization, lead innovation for 6G radio interface and access technologies, and help shape the future of mobile communications—ensuring Nokia’s continued leadership in wireless research.

Key Responsibilities

HOW YOU WILL CONTRIBUTE AND WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

- Lead end-to-end 6G radio research, integrating MIMO, initial access, RF performance, AI-native PHY design, advanced Layer-1 control, and coexistence considerations to enable scalable, intelligent, and regulation-compliant 6G systems.
- Act as Nokia’s delegated representative to 3GPP RAN1, taking ownership of technical contributions, agenda shaping, consensus building, and alignment of standardization outcomes with Nokia’s 6G research and business priorities.
- Develop pioneering 6G intellectual property, including MIMO, initial access, RF performance, AI-native PHY techniques, and advanced L1 control signaling.
- Embed AI-first principles into 6G standards research, defining robust evaluation methodologies for AI-enabled PHY validation aligned with regulatory and compliance requirements.
- Represent and champion Nokia’s technical leadership in 3GPP and external research forums, advocating next-generation PHY/L1 architectures.
- Shape Nokia’s 6G technology and standards strategy, contributing to long-term research roadmaps across MIMO, initial access, RF performance, AI radio, coexistence frameworks, and PHY/L1 control, aligned with business and ecosystem priorities.
- Collaborate closely with RAN Protocols, RF, regulatory, and system teams to ensure coherent evolution from research concepts to product-relevant technologies.

Requirements

KEY SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

- Strong system-level expertise in 5G and/or emerging 6G systems.
- Master’s degree or Ph.D. in electrical engineering, communications, signal processing, or a related field.
- Deep understanding of radio access systems and associated technology challenges.
- Solid grasp of radio product portfolios and wireless business strategy.
- Familiarity with AI-driven research methodologies, including data-driven and agentic workflows.
- Prior 3GPP standardization experience is preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to serve as an effective 3GPP delegate, including technical authority, preparation and delivery of high-quality contributions, active meeting participation, and coordination across internal stakeholders to form coherent Nokia positions.

Ideal Background

- 5+ years of research experience in 6G-relevant radio topics.
- Proven track record in concept development, performance evaluation, and technical leadership in complex research programs and/or Standards Development Organization such as e.g. 3GPP, ATIS.
- Experience working in multinational and cross-cultural environments.
- Strong ability to operate in highly complex, innovation-driven organizations.
- Proactive in scouting, assessing, and applying state-of-the-art research results.
- Fluent in English, both spoken and written.

Personal Attributes

- Strong technical depth combined with influencing and communication skills.
- Excellent networking and collaboration abilities across organizational boundaries.
- Open-minded, adaptable, and resilient in fast-evolving research and standardization environments.
- Analytical and structured, with the ability to cut through complexity and prioritize effectively.
- Passion for continuous learning and professional growth.
- Strong results orientation and willingness to take on new challenges.