SPC Special Sessions
The Tri-hybrid MIMO Architecture: From Theory to Prototype
Prof. Chan-Byoung Chae
Underwood Distinguished Professor, Yonsei University
Abstract
MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output) technology has greatly improved data rates and how efficiently we use the wireless spectrum. But as we add more antennas and move to higher frequencies, issues like power consumption and hardware complexity start to become major challenges. In this talk, I will introduce a new design called the tri-hybrid MIMO architecture. This approach combines digital and analog beamforming with energy-efficient reconfigurable antennas. I will first explain what reconfigurable antennas are and why they are useful. Then, I will describe the tri-hybrid system and show how it helps reduce power use and improve performance. I will also share an early prototype of this design that uses dynamic metasurface antennas as an example. Finally, I will also talk about what challenges remain—like how to design these arrays and how to fine-tune antenna settings. This new architecture opens up exciting research opportunities that bring together electromagnetics, circuits, and signal processing in future wireless systems.
Biography
Dr. Chae is an Underwood Distinguished Professor at Yonsei University, Korea. Before joining Yonsei, he was with Bell Laboratories, NJ, USA (2009- 2011) and Harvard University, MA, USA (2008-2009. He received his Ph.D. degree in ECE from UT Austin, USA in 2008. Prior to joining UT, he was with the Telecommunications R&D Center, Samsung Electronics, Korea (2001-2005).
Dr. Chae was a recipient of the KICS Haedong Scholar Award in 2023, the CES Innovation Awards in 2023, four best demo awards from the IEEE ICC (2022), IEEE WCNC (2020), IEEE DySPAN (2018), IEEE INFOCOM (2015), the Best Young Engineer Award from the National Academy of Engineering of Korea in 2019, the IEEE/KICS JCN Best Paper Award in 2018, the IEIE/IEEE Joint Award in 2014, the IEEE SPMag Best Paper Award in 2013, the IEEE ComSoc AP Outstanding Young Researcher Award in 2012, and the IEEE VTS Dan. E. Noble Fellowship Award in 2008.
He has held several editorial positions, including EiC of the IEEE T-MBMC, Senior Editor of the IEEE WCL, and Editor of the IEEE CommMag, IEEE TWC. He was an IEEE ComSoc Distinguished Lecturer (2020-2023) and is an IEEE VTS Distinguished Lecturer (2024-2025).
Dr. Chae was a recipient of the KICS Haedong Scholar Award in 2023, the CES Innovation Awards in 2023, four best demo awards from the IEEE ICC (2022), IEEE WCNC (2020), IEEE DySPAN (2018), IEEE INFOCOM (2015), the Best Young Engineer Award from the National Academy of Engineering of Korea in 2019, the IEEE/KICS JCN Best Paper Award in 2018, the IEIE/IEEE Joint Award in 2014, the IEEE SPMag Best Paper Award in 2013, the IEEE ComSoc AP Outstanding Young Researcher Award in 2012, and the IEEE VTS Dan. E. Noble Fellowship Award in 2008.
He has held several editorial positions, including EiC of the IEEE T-MBMC, Senior Editor of the IEEE WCL, and Editor of the IEEE CommMag, IEEE TWC. He was an IEEE ComSoc Distinguished Lecturer (2020-2023) and is an IEEE VTS Distinguished Lecturer (2024-2025).
6G Foundation Models: The Next Frontier for AI-Native Networks
Dr. Hatem Abou-Zeid
Associate Professor, University of Calgary
Abstract
Artificial intelligence capabilities are envisioned to transform the design and operation of 6G networks. While research efforts have demonstrated the potential of AI for wireless, the lack of generalization and the need for tailored AI models per wireless task have challenged their practical adoption in real-world networks. In this talk, we will discuss the emerging paradigm of foundational models and strategies toward achieving such models in the wireless context. By leveraging their ability to generalize across tasks with minimal labeled data, we can greatly reduce the need for costly data collection and model retraining. This makes it possible to build advanced AI systems at scale and at low cost.
The talk will provide concrete examples of building multi-task foundational models using pre-training and self-supervised approaches for wireless signals. We will present a suite of methods to effectively represent wireless data into embeddings that achieve generalizability and robustness - key requirements for the development of foundational AI models. The techniques presented will provide a guide to researchers and practitioners to design generalizable multi-task AI methods that are suited for practical deployment. Finally, the talk will conclude with a discussion on exciting future research directions toward foundational AI models for 6G networks.
The talk will provide concrete examples of building multi-task foundational models using pre-training and self-supervised approaches for wireless signals. We will present a suite of methods to effectively represent wireless data into embeddings that achieve generalizability and robustness - key requirements for the development of foundational AI models. The techniques presented will provide a guide to researchers and practitioners to design generalizable multi-task AI methods that are suited for practical deployment. Finally, the talk will conclude with a discussion on exciting future research directions toward foundational AI models for 6G networks.
Biography
Hatem Abou-Zeid is a Schulich Industry Chair in Artificial Intelligence (AI) for 6G and an Associate Professor at the Department of Electrical and Software Engineering, University of Calgary. His research expertise is in advanced AI techniques for AI-Native 6G and his team pioneered the development of foundation models for real-world wireless sensing, localization, and communication and raw IQ signals.
Prior to joining the University of Calgary, Dr. Abou-Zeid was at Ericsson Canada as a 5G Senior Systems Designer contributing to algorithms and IP for Radio Access Network (RAN) intelligence. He is the co-inventor of 20 patent filings and 100+ journal and conference publications in many of the leading venues for wireless communications research. Several wireless access algorithms that he co-invented and co-developed are deployed in 5G networks worldwide. He has been invited to present 10+ tutorials and talks at international venues on foundation models and trustworthy AI for 6G. His record spans several prestigious accolades including two Best Paper Awards, Software Engineering Professor of the Year, Schulich Graduate Supervision Award, and multiple Research Excellence Awards.
Prior to joining the University of Calgary, Dr. Abou-Zeid was at Ericsson Canada as a 5G Senior Systems Designer contributing to algorithms and IP for Radio Access Network (RAN) intelligence. He is the co-inventor of 20 patent filings and 100+ journal and conference publications in many of the leading venues for wireless communications research. Several wireless access algorithms that he co-invented and co-developed are deployed in 5G networks worldwide. He has been invited to present 10+ tutorials and talks at international venues on foundation models and trustworthy AI for 6G. His record spans several prestigious accolades including two Best Paper Awards, Software Engineering Professor of the Year, Schulich Graduate Supervision Award, and multiple Research Excellence Awards.
Quantum Machine Learning: Algorithms and ICT Convergence Applications
Dr. Joongheon Kim
Associate Professor, Korea University
Abstract
In this presentation, the basic architectures and algorithms of quantum neural networks (QNN) and quantum machine learning (QML) will be introduced. After the introduction, the key characteristics and advantages will be discussed further. Based on the QNN/QML advantages, various applications such as mobility control, large-scale scheduling, finance, and medicine, will be introduced. Finally, this presentation will be concluded with deep-dive discussions for potential research directions.
Biography
Joongheon Kim has been with Korea University, Seoul, Korea, since 2019, where he is currently an associate professor at the School of Electrical Engineering. He received B.S. and M.S. degrees from Korea University, Seoul, Korea, in 2004 and 2006; and the Ph.D. degree from the University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, CA, USA, in 2014. Before joining Korea University, he was with LG Electronics (Seoul, Korea), Intel Corporation (A, USA), Chung-Ang University (Seoul, Korea). He serves as editor for IEEE Communications Surveys and Tutorials, IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology, and IEEE Internet of Things Journal. He was a recipient of Annenberg Graduate Fellowship with his Ph.D. admission from USC (2009), Intel Corporation Next Generation and Standards (NGS) Division Recognition Award (2015), IEEE Systems Journal Best Paper Award (2020), IEEE ComSoc Multimedia Communications Technical Committee (MMTC) Outstanding Young Researcher Award (2020), and IEEE ComSoc MMTC Best Journal Paper Award (2021).
From Theory to Practice in 6G AI-Native Network
Prof. Tony Quek
Associate Provost and Professor, Singapore University of Technology and Design
Abstract
With the advances in big data computing technology, AI already shows promising potentials in wireless industry, and we expect it will play an even more crucial role in 6G wireless networks. On the other hand, there is a future trend to explore the concurrent use of converged computer-and-communications infrastructure to run RAN and AI and Generative AI workloads, enhancing platform utilization and creating new monetization opportunities. Lastly, it is crucial to understand the radio interface requirements for running AI and Generative AI applications across consumer, enterprise, and government sectors. In this talk, we will first look at the theory aspect of an AI-native network through distributed learning and semantic communications. Next, we proceed to explore the practice aspect in implementing an Ai-native network through the concept of AI-RAN and explains how it can transform future networks with AI. In conclusion, we will also share some of our work through Singapore’s Future Communications Research and Development Programme (FCP).
Biography
Tony Quek received the B.E. and M.E. degrees in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Tokyo Institute of Technology, respectively. At MIT, he earned the Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Currently, he is the Associate Provost (AI & Digital Innovation) and Cheng Tsang Man Chair Professor with Singapore University of Technology and Design. He also serves as the Director of the Future Communications R&D Programme, and the ST Engineering Distinguished Professor. His current research topics include wireless communications and networking, network intelligence, non-terrestrial networks, open radio access network, and 6G. He received the 2008 Philip Yeo Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Research, the 2012 IEEE William R. Bennett Prize, the 2016 IEEE Signal Processing Society Young Author Best Paper Award, the 2017 CTTC Early Achievement Award, the 2017 IEEE ComSoc AP Outstanding Paper Award, the 2020 IEEE Communications Society Young Author Best Paper Award, the 2020 IEEE Stephen O. Rice Prize, the 2020 Nokia Visiting Professorship, the 2022 IEEE Signal Processing Society Best Paper Award, the 2024 IIT Bombay International Award For Excellence in Research in Engineering and Technology, and the IEEE Communications Society WTC Recognition Award 2024. He is an IEEE Fellow, a WWRF Fellow, and a Fellow of the Academy of Engineering Singapore.
Fundamentals and Trends of Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) Technologies for 6G
Prof. Kaewon Choi
Professor, Sungkyunkwan University
Abstract
Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) is an emerging key technology for next-generation 6G networks that combines radar and RF-based positioning technologies with wireless communication into a unified system. This talk will begin by introducing the fundamental concepts and global research trends of ISAC. It will then delve into the theoretical foundations of ISAC, with a particular focus on OFDM-based radar systems that serve as the backbone of ISAC, along with their associated signal processing techniques. Furthermore, we will explore practical implementations and experimental systems that integrate OFDM-based communication and radar, and discuss the potential of combining ISAC with artificial intelligence technologies.
Biography
Kae Won Choi received his B.S. in Civil, Urban, and Geosystem Engineering and his M.S. and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from Seoul National University in 2001, 2003, and 2007, respectively. He began his professional career at Samsung Electronics in the Telecommunication Business Division from 2008 to 2009. He then worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Manitoba, Canada, from 2009 to 2010. From 2010 to 2016, he served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Seoul National University of Science and Technology. Since 2016, he has been a faculty member at Sungkyunkwan University, where he is currently a Professor in the College of Information and Communication Engineering. His research interests span machine learning, integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, radar signal processing, RF energy transfer, cellular communication, and radio resource management.
Massive Data-driven Integrated Communication and Sensing
Prof. Sofie Pollin
Professor, KU Leuven
Abstract
Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) is a cornerstone of 6G networks, promising to enhance both spectrum efficiency and situational awareness. This talk explores a massive, data-driven approach to ISAC, leveraging dense antenna arrays, cell-free architectures, and machine learning to unlock fine-grained location awareness and environment mapping. We present a spectrum of integration levels—from implicit sensing through beamforming, to explicit localization using model- and data-driven techniques such as AoA learning and ML-MUSIC. Using a massive MIMO testbed, we demonstrate coherent near-field radar sensing capabilities, highlighting the role of array resolution and bandwidth in achieving high accuracy. Experimental results show sub-meter bistatic range and sub-m/s Doppler resolution. Furthermore, we explore frictionless reproducibility in AI for ISAC, emphasizing the need for robust datasets, automated labeling, and synchronized, calibrated deployments. Applications discussed include human presence detection, respiration sensing, and passive indoor tracking. Ultimately, we argue that ISAC is not just a feature, but a rethinking of wireless systems as distributed sensor networks. This transformation challenges us to bridge the gap between simulation and measurement, and between communication and perception, laying the foundation for intelligent, context-aware 6G infrastructures.
Biography
Sofie Pollin (SMIEEE) is a full professor at KU Leuven focusing on wireless communication systems. She obtained her PhD from KU Leuven in 2006 (with honors). She had a research position with UC Berkeley from 2006-2008, as a BAEF and Marie Curie Fellow. From 2008-2012 she was senior researcher at imec, where shis is now still a principal member of technical staff. Her research centers around wireless networks that require networks that are ever more dense, heterogeneous, battery powered, and spectrum constrained. Her research interests are cell-free networks, integrated communication and sensing, and non-terrestrial networks. She is member of the Executive Editorial Committee for IEEE TWC and Associate Editor for IEEE TMC. She is the publication and special issue officer for the Aerial Communications Emerging Technology Initiative (AC-ETI). She was a TPC co-chair the 4th and 5th IEEE Joint Communication and Sensing (JC&S) Symposium, TPC co-chair of the 2024 EuCNC, symposium co-chair of Globecom 2021 (Communication Theory), Globecom 2022 (SAC AC), ICC 2024 (Communication Theory), PIMRC 2024, WCNC 2022, DySPAN 2015, and was involved in the organization of ICC 2020, DySPAN 2017, ISWCS 2015, CCNC 2016 and ACM Mobicom 2023. She has received ICC 2024 and EuCNC 2024 best paper awards.
6G Non-Terrestrial Networks for Ubiquitous Connectivity
Prof. Aryan Kaushik
Associate Professor, Manchester Met, UK
Abstract
Prof. Kaushik will present on the wireless evolution towards latest IMT-2030/6G framework, trends, challenges, standardization aspects, new spectrum opportunities, and related use cases. In particular we will discuss about achieving the “ubiquitous" 6G services for connecting the unconnected through utilization of non-terrestrial networks (NTN), and effective integration of terrestrial networks with NTN, along with key synergies of NTN with key 6G technologies such as integrated sensing and communications, improving energy efficiency and minimizing latency using artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML) such as deep reinforcement learning and federated learning, semantic communications, electromagnetic signal and information theory (ESIT), etc., leading to 6G innovation beyond just communications. These synergies also lead to vital use cases such as for public safety, mission-critical services, and 6G-empowered robotics.
Biography
Prof. Aryan Kaushik is currently an Associate Professor at Manchester Met, UK, since 2024. Previously he has been with University of Sussex (2021-24), University College London (2020-21), University of Edinburgh (2015-19), Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (2014-15), and held visiting appointments at Imperial College London (2019-20), University of Bologna (2024), University of Luxembourg (2018), Athena RC (2020), and Beihang University (2017-19, 2022). He has been External Assessor (Academic Promotion) at University of Hertfordshire (2025), External Assessor at University of Mauritius (2025), External PhD Examiner internationally such as at NIT Jalandhar (2025) and Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (2023). He has been an Invited Panel Member at the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) ICT Prioritisation Panel in 2023, UK EPSRC Proposals Reviewer since 2023, French National Research Agency (ANR) Proposal Reviewer in 2025, Core Member of the IEEE P1955 Standard on 6G-Empowering Robotics, Chair of IEEE ComSoc ETI on ESIT, Co-Chair of IEEE SIG on AITNTN, Founding Member of the IEEE SIG on FAS, Elections Committee Member for the IEEE ComSoc UK & Ireland Chapter, Editor of 5 books by Elsevier and Wiley on variety of topics such as ISAC, NTN, ESIT, Intelligent Metasurfaces and Digital Twins/Imaging, and several journals such as IEEE Transactions on Communications, IEEE Transactions on Mobile Computing, IEEE Communications Surveys and Tutorials, IEEE OJCOMS (Best Editor Award 2024 and 2023), IEEE Communications Letters (Exemplary Editor 2024 and 2023), IEEE IoT Magazine, IEEE CTN, and several special issues such as in IEEE Wireless Communications, IEEE Network, etc. He is also the host of the IEEE Communications Society Technology News Podcasts Series. He has been invited/keynote and tutorial speaker for 110+ academic and industry events, and conferences globally such as at IEEE ICC 2024-25, IEEE GLOBECOM 2023-24, etc., and chairing in Organizing and Technical Program Committees of 14+ flagship IEEE conferences such as IEEE ICC 2024-26, etc., and has been General Chair of 30+ workshops and special sessions such as at IEEE ICC 2024-25, IEEE GLOBECOM 2023-25, etc.
Satellite Non-Terrestrial Networks: past present and future challenges
Dr. Riccardo De Gaudenzi
Freelance consultant
Abstract
Satellite networks have played a key role in supporting the creation of global communication networks, video transmission, and completing terrestrial networks for uncovered areas. Although the greatest commercial success has been in the field of transmission and professional applications, there is growing interest and investment related to the provision of complementary fixed broadband and narrowband services via satellite. This presentation will provide an overview of the evolution of satellite communication systems and technological trends covering the different commercial applications. Starting with the most important satellite applications, market aspects, system architectures and key technologies, the following satellite communication systems will be covered: Non-geostationary narrowband mobile constellation systems and related challenges (Iridium, Globalstar, AST Mobile, Apple, Beidou 3, Lynk, Starlink). Geostationary mobile satellite communication systems (Inmarsat, Thuraya, Solaris/Echostar, Inmarsat Global Xpress) High-capacity geostationary satellite communication systems and related challenges (Eutelsat Konnect VHTS, Viasat 2-3, Jupiter 3) Non-geostationary broadband (mega) constellation systems and related challenges (SES O3B, OneWeb, Space X Starlink, Amazon Kuiper) Some insights will be provided to illustrate the lessons learned and key challenges ahead.
Biography
Riccardo De Gaudenzi (Fellow IEEE) received his Doctor Engineer degree (cum Laude) in electronic engineering from the University of Pisa, Italy in 1985, a PhD from the Technical University of Delft, The Netherlands in 1999 and a Communication Engineering Master Degree ad honorem from University of Parma in 2021. He is currently a freelance consultant and University lecturer. In 1988, he joined ESA’s Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC), Noordwijk, The Netherlands where he has been covering several technical and managerial positions inside the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality. As last position, he has been the Head of the ESA’s Electrical Department from 2018 until December 2023. He actively contributed to the development and the demonstration of the ETSI S-UMTS Family A, S-MIM, DVB-S2, DVB-S2X, DVB-RCS2 and DVB-SH standards. He has published more than 140 scientific papers and owns more than 30 patents. He is co-recipient of the 2003 and 2008 Jack Neubauer Memorial Award Best Paper from the IEEE Vehicular Technology Society. He has been awarded the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) 2022 Aerospace Communications Award.
Points Overlooked in Theories for LEO Satellite Communication and How to Make it Real
Prof. Sungtek Kahng
Professor and CEO, Incheon National University and Kangpole Co., Ltd.
Abstract
Mobile industry is buzzing with expectations and activities of figuring out how to build wireless networks proper for communicating with LEO satellites and operate the services. From a circuit and antenna system supplier’s perspectives, it is an audacious project. Similar to how LTE service developers and carriers might feel on the moment they heard the 5G mobile era being planned and looming, as for the 6G thing involving the flying vehicles, its working in a full fledge is doubted by far. Theoretical assumptions and mathematical derivations in the studies of vehicular communication e.g. modulation schemes, handovers, resource allocation, loading-off, bandwidth and so on cannot be taken into real communication as is. There exist gaps between communication theories and system implementation. Also, it takes prototyping long to be the basis of commercial mobile services. In this talk, the elements of NTN are revisited and what communication theoreticians mustn’t miss in making 6G communication work is suggested to bridge the gap, based on Radio and Satellite Communication R&D projects of Kangpole’s and Incheon U.’s ITRC.
Biography
Prof. Sungtek Kahng received his Ph.D. degree from Hanyang University, Seoul, with a specialty in Radio Science and Engineering. Upon graduation, he was with the Electronics and Telecommunication Research Institute(briefly, ETRI), and developed the communication payloads of two GEO satellites and RF circuits and antennas for wireless communication equipment for years. From March of 2004 on, he has been with Incheon national university laboriously teaching and training ICT and EE majors on understanding and designing circuits and systems. Simultaneously, he is the CEO of Kangpole Co., Ltd. advising mobile phone makers and display makers on small antennas and providing high and low-frequency components and antennas for ETRI, KARI, and defense systems incorporations. Also, he is the director of the government-funded ITRC on LEO Satellite communication with 5G ground networks in the era of 6G mobile services.
AERPAW and Its Digital Twin for Supporting AI Research with Autonomous Vehicle Networks
Prof. Ismail Guvenc
Professor, North Carolina State University
Abstract
This talk will first overview the NSF Aerial Experimentation and Research Platform on Advanced Wireless (AERPAW), an outdoor infrastructure supporting research and experimentation with software-defined radios and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). We will discuss the significance of AERPAW's digital twin to support remote development and testing of artificial intelligence (AI) aided solutions for UAV trajectory optimization and wireless parameter adaptation. We will provide various research examples conducted over the NSF AERPAW platform, including 3D spectrum measurements and sharing, propagation modeling, wireless localization, and Kriging-based spectrum interpolation. We will also show a brief real-time demo on how any researcher can access AERPAW's portal to initiate and develop an experiment.
Biography
Ismail Guvenc is a Professor at the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at NC State University. His recent research interests include 5G/6G wireless networks, digital twins, UAV communications, and millimeter/terahertz wireless systems. He has published nearly 400 conference/journal papers and book chapters, several standardization contributions, four books, and over 30 U.S. patents. Dr. Guvenc is the PI and the director for the NSF AERPAW project and a site director for the NSF BWAC I/UCRC center. He is an IEEE Fellow, a senior member of the National Academy of Inventors, and recipient of several awards, including NC State COE Alcoa Distinguished Engineering Research Award (2023), NC State Faculty Scholar Award (2021), R. Ray Bennett Faculty Fellow Award (2019), FIU COE Faculty Research Award (2016), NSF CAREER Award (2015), Ralph E. Powe Junior Faculty Award (2014), and USF Outstanding Dissertation Award (2006).
Future in-vehicle networking (IVN) technologies for connected and autonomous driving
Prof. Ji-Woong Choi
Professor, DGIST
Abstract
Various in-vehicle networks (IVNs) are used in connected and autonomous vehicles. Conventional IVNs like CAN, CAN-FD, LIN, and FlexRay offer only a few Mbps transmission speeds, which isn't enough for the high-speed, low-latency communication needed by numerous sensors and controllers. To overcome these limitations, newer IVN technologies such as automotive Ethernet and SerDes have been deployed. This talk will begin by explaining conventional IVNs, then move on to recent IVN technologies, including our latest findings on future IVNs.
Biography
Ji-Woong Choi received the B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees from Seoul National University (SNU), Seoul, South Korea, in 1998, 2000, and 2004, respectively, all in Electrical Engineering. From 2005 to 2007, he was a Postdoctoral Visiting Scholar in Stanford University, USA. From 2007 to 2010, he was with Marvell Semiconductor, USA, as a Staff Systems Engineer for next-generation wireless communication systems. Since 2010, he has been with Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, South Korea, as a Full Professor, and also working as Director of Brain Engineering Convergence Research Center, DGIST. His research interests include communication theory and signal processing, and related applications such as vehicular and robotic communications, biomedical signal processing/machine learning applications, and brain–machine/computer interface (BMI/BCI). He is Editor of Journal of Communications and Networks (JCN) and IEEE Transactions on Molecular, Biological, and Multi-Scale Communications (TMBMC).
Connecting with Purpose for 6G and Beyond
Dr. Aylin Yener
Roy and Lois Chope Professor, The Ohio State University
Abstract
6G and beyond systems will continue to rely heavily on ubiquitous wireless connectivity. Different than the generations that came before, next generation systems will need to cater to applications that demand more than just faster rates. The increasingly capable wireless edge consisting of multifunctional devices will aid in the paradigm shift where networked communication occurs to realize, support or improve a functionality in addition to reliably communicating digital messages. Catalyzed by the AI revolution, the next wireless revolution thus promises to bring to life integrated designs fueled by the edge.
This talk will delve into the new paradigm of connecting with purpose, where the wireless edge devices communicate (collectively) to support a goal such as designing a learning system or accomplishing a learning task. The talk will provide a summary of our recent contributions in this paradigm. In particular, we will demonstrate, with relevant theory and applications to use cases, the design of semantic networks and task-oriented communications, and wireless edge networks that improve distributed AI. We will conclude with future directions in connecting with purpose that promises to deliver the next wireless revolution.
This talk will delve into the new paradigm of connecting with purpose, where the wireless edge devices communicate (collectively) to support a goal such as designing a learning system or accomplishing a learning task. The talk will provide a summary of our recent contributions in this paradigm. In particular, we will demonstrate, with relevant theory and applications to use cases, the design of semantic networks and task-oriented communications, and wireless edge networks that improve distributed AI. We will conclude with future directions in connecting with purpose that promises to deliver the next wireless revolution.
Biography
Aylin Yener holds the Roy and Lois Chope Chair in Engineering at The Ohio State University with Professorship appointments at the Departments of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, and Integrated Systems Engineering. Prior to joining the faculty at Ohio State in 2020, she was a Distinguished Professor of Electrical Engineering and Dean’s Fellow at Penn State where she started as an assistant professor in 2002. Her expertise is in wireless communications, information theory and learning, with recent focus on various pillars of 6G including new advances in physical layer designs, edge learning/computing, system design for confluence of sensing, communications, computing and learning, energy conscious networked systems, and security and privacy. She received several technical recognitions including the 2025 IEEE Information Theory Society Joy Thomas Paper Award, 2020 IEEE Communication Theory Technical Achievement Award, 2019 IEEE Communication Society Best Tutorial Paper award and 2014 IEEE Communication Society Marconi Prize Paper Award. She was a distinguished lecturer for the IEEE Communications, Information Theory and Vehicular Technology societies. She is a fellow of AAAS, the IEEE, AAIA, and is an elected member of The Science Academy of Turkey.
Yener has volunteered for IEEE Technical Activities since the beginning of her career in various positions including conferences and editorial service for IEEE Communications, Information Theory, Signal Processing and Vehicular Technology Societies. She has extensively volunteered for the IEEE Information Theory Society in leadership posts and served as its president in 2020.
She is the Editor-in-Chief of IEEE Transactions on Green Communications and Networking which is a joint publication of the Communications, Signal Processing and Vehicular Technology societies. Yener is presently serving on the IEEE Board of Directors as the director of Division IX which includes seven societies.
Yener has volunteered for IEEE Technical Activities since the beginning of her career in various positions including conferences and editorial service for IEEE Communications, Information Theory, Signal Processing and Vehicular Technology Societies. She has extensively volunteered for the IEEE Information Theory Society in leadership posts and served as its president in 2020.
She is the Editor-in-Chief of IEEE Transactions on Green Communications and Networking which is a joint publication of the Communications, Signal Processing and Vehicular Technology societies. Yener is presently serving on the IEEE Board of Directors as the director of Division IX which includes seven societies.
Towards Realizing Digital Semantic Communications: Challenges and Potential Solutions
Prof. Yo-Seb Jeon
Associate Professor, POSTECH
Abstract
Semantic communication has recently emerged as a promising paradigm capable of surpassing the fundamental limits of traditional Shannon theory-based communication systems. This talk addresses the key challenges involved in implementing semantic communication while maintaining compatibility with conventional digital communication systems. We further explore two potential solutions to this problem: a channel-adaptive semantic communication framework and a Transformer-based semantic communication design. Finally, we discuss possible future directions for the evolution of semantic communication technologies.
Biography
Yo-Seb Jeon received the B.S. (Top Hons.) and Ph.D. degrees in the Department of Electrical Engineering from Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, South Korea, in 2012 and 2016, respectively. From September 2016 to August 2018, he was a Postdoctoral Research Associate at POSTECH. From September 2018 to January 2020, he was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Electrical Engineering at Princeton University. Since 2020, he has been on the faculty at POSTECH, where he is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering. Since 2024, he is an Associate Editor for IEEE Wireless Communications Letters and an Editor for Journal of Communications and Networks. His research interests include the areas of wireless communications, distributed AI, and AI/ML for wireless communications.
Pragmatic Communications
Dr. Deniz Gunduz
Professor, Imperial College London
Abstract
Pragmatic communications is an emerging communication paradigm, in which the goal of the transmitter is to help the receiver to take the right actions at the right time to maximize a shared reward function over a certain time horizon. The transmitted signal and its impact on the receiver depends on the environment state (or, the noisy observations thereof). In this talk, I will first show how this formulation unifies and generalizes many well-studied communication problems, including source coding, channel coding, joint source-channel coding, as well as those aiming to optimize age of information or other similar metrics. I will then show some recent results for various novel pragmatic communication problems, and highlight some open problems.
Biography
Deniz Gündüz is a Professor of Information Processing in the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department at Imperial College London, UK, where he also serves as the deputy head of the Intelligent Systems and Networks Group. He is a Fellow of the IEEE, and an elected member of the IEEE Signal Processing for Communications and Networking (SPCOM) and Machine Learning for Signal Processing (MLSP) Technical Committees. He serves as an area editor for the IEEE Transactions on Information Theory. He is the recipient of the IEEE Communications Society - Communication Theory Technical Committee (CTTC) Early Achievement Award in 2017, Starting (2016), Consolidator (2022) and Proof-of-Concept (2023) Grants of the European Research Council (ERC), and has co-authored several award-winning papers, most recently the IEEE Communications Society - Young Author Best Paper Award (2022), and IEEE International Conference on Communications Best Paper Award (2023). He received the Imperial College London - President's Award for Excellence in Research Supervision in 2023.
AI-Native Networking: Enabling Scalable and Secure Edge Intelligence through Cloud-Network Convergence
Ms. Linda Dunbar
Distinguished Engineer, Futurewei Technologies
Abstract
As AI services move closer to the edge, traditional network and cloud boundaries must evolve to support dynamic, latency-sensitive, and scalable deployments. This talk explores a practical framework for AI-native networking that enables sustainable and efficient service delivery through deeper convergence between cloud orchestration and programmable network infrastructure.
The presentation highlights recent advances in standardizing interfaces and protocols that bridge cloud platforms (like Kubernetes) with real-time network telemetry and control. Key topics include:
- Dynamic AI workload placement based on end-to-end network performance
- BGP extensions for 5G edge service metadata, enabling intelligent routing decisions
- Lightweight authentication mechanisms for scalable and secure SD-WAN services across heterogeneous underlays
These innovations are grounded in active work at the IETF and demonstrate how open, standards-based architectures can empower AI-native ICT systems to operate with greater agility, reliability, and security.
Attendees will gain insights into emerging tools and practices for aligning cloud and network operations to support AI at scale—an essential step toward realizing the promise of sustainable, AI-native service infrastructures.
The presentation highlights recent advances in standardizing interfaces and protocols that bridge cloud platforms (like Kubernetes) with real-time network telemetry and control. Key topics include:
- Dynamic AI workload placement based on end-to-end network performance
- BGP extensions for 5G edge service metadata, enabling intelligent routing decisions
- Lightweight authentication mechanisms for scalable and secure SD-WAN services across heterogeneous underlays
These innovations are grounded in active work at the IETF and demonstrate how open, standards-based architectures can empower AI-native ICT systems to operate with greater agility, reliability, and security.
Attendees will gain insights into emerging tools and practices for aligning cloud and network operations to support AI at scale—an essential step toward realizing the promise of sustainable, AI-native service infrastructures.
Biography
Linda Dunbar is a Distinguished Engineer at Futurewei Technologies, where she leads innovation in networking, security, and cloud-edge integration. With over two decades of experience, she has been instrumental in developing scalable solutions for 5G edge computing, SD-WAN security, and dynamic AI workload placement across hybrid cloud environments. Her work focuses on bridging telecom infrastructure with cloud orchestration platforms to enable AI-native service delivery and policy-aware transport.
Linda has contributed extensively to IETF standardization efforts. She chairs initiatives such as Computing-Aware Networking and Interface to Network Security Functions (I2NSF), and has authored key drafts including BGP extensions for 5G edge service metadata and lightweight authentication for IPsec in SD-WAN. Her recent work addresses real-time coordination between cloud and network domains using standardized YANG models and BGP signaling to optimize service placement and data exchange.
A prolific inventor, she holds over 50 U.S. patents and has received multiple industry accolades, including the ONUG Innovation Award. Linda is a frequent speaker at global conferences such as MPLS/SDN/NFV Congress, NANOG, and ONUG, and is recognized for her ability to translate complex technologies into practical, operator-ready solutions. She holds an M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Maryland.
Linda has contributed extensively to IETF standardization efforts. She chairs initiatives such as Computing-Aware Networking and Interface to Network Security Functions (I2NSF), and has authored key drafts including BGP extensions for 5G edge service metadata and lightweight authentication for IPsec in SD-WAN. Her recent work addresses real-time coordination between cloud and network domains using standardized YANG models and BGP signaling to optimize service placement and data exchange.
A prolific inventor, she holds over 50 U.S. patents and has received multiple industry accolades, including the ONUG Innovation Award. Linda is a frequent speaker at global conferences such as MPLS/SDN/NFV Congress, NANOG, and ONUG, and is recognized for her ability to translate complex technologies into practical, operator-ready solutions. She holds an M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Maryland.
Transforming Mobile Networks with Internet‑Architecture Principles: SRv6 Mobile User Plane for Scalable 5G & Edge Innovation
Mr. Satoru Matsushima
Technical Meister, SoftBank Corp.
Abstract
5G was launched with bold promises of ultra‑low latency, pervasive edge intelligence, and service‑specific network slices. In practice, today’s mobile user plane still inherits a circuit‑style GTP tunnel model that inflates state in UPFs, limits service agility, and drives CAPEX/OPEX. This talk introduces the Segment Routing IPv6 Mobile User Plane (SRv6 MUP) - an implementation of IETF MUP architecture with SRv6 that transforms 5G sessions to IP routing. By replacing per‑bearer tunnels with unique segment identifiers, SRv6 MUP collapses control‑plane complexity, enables end-to-end slicing, and seamlessly extends routing intelligence to Multi‑Access Edge Computing (MEC) sites. Field trials in Japan have already demonstrated reducing end‑to‑end latency for remote musical ensembles and real‑time AI dash‑cam analytics over commercial 4/5G networks. The presentation will:
Trace architectural tensions between Telco and Internet models;
Explain SRv6 MUP design, BGP‑MUP, and pluggable 3GPP inter‑working;
Share quantitative results from nationwide trials;
Discuss cost, scalability, and standardisation status at IETF/3GPP;
Outline a roadmap toward application‑aware, seamless access to MEC.
Attendees will gain a concrete blueprint for evolving existing 5G deployments into an open, service‑driven platform capable of supporting the next decade of edge‑native innovation.
Trace architectural tensions between Telco and Internet models;
Explain SRv6 MUP design, BGP‑MUP, and pluggable 3GPP inter‑working;
Share quantitative results from nationwide trials;
Discuss cost, scalability, and standardisation status at IETF/3GPP;
Outline a roadmap toward application‑aware, seamless access to MEC.
Attendees will gain a concrete blueprint for evolving existing 5G deployments into an open, service‑driven platform capable of supporting the next decade of edge‑native innovation.
Biography
Satoru Matsushima is Technical Meister at SoftBank Corp., Tokyo. Since 1999, he has led design and deployment of BGP/MPLS VPNs, distributed IX, and multicast services. Since 2008, his work has focused on IPv4/IPv6 coexistence, later contributing to the MAP standardization, achieving IETF standardization in 2015 and advancing IPv6 adoption in Japan. Since 2016, he has researched SRv6 for 5G mobile backhaul, culminating in its IETF standardization in 2020. In 2021, he proposed the SRv6 MUP architecture to enhance 5G user plane efficiency, furthering his work with SoftBank 5G. He has served as SoftBank Technical Meister and as a 3GPP CT WG4 rapporteur since 2018, and as co-chair of the IETF Distributed Mobility Management Working Group since 2019.