MASc Position – PolarLink Project (Computer Science)
University of Victoria – Centre for Aerospace Research (CfAR)
Start Date: January 2026 | Duration: 2 Years | Location: On-site, Victoria, BC
Application Deadline: Open until filled
About UVic CfAR
The Centre for Aerospace Research (CfAR) at the University of Victoria is a Canadian leader in CubeSat and Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) research, design, integration, and testing. Led by Prof. Afzal Suleman (Tier 1 Canada Research Chair), CfAR engineers and students work on complex aerospace projects from concept to flight operations.
More information: https://www.uvic-cfar.com/
About Prof. Jianping Pan
Prof. Jianping Pan is a Professor of Computer Science at UVic specializing in computer networks and distributed systems, with research spanning networking protocols, performance analysis, and network security. He is a Fellow of the IEEE and Senior Member of ACM, and has served on committees of major networking conferences.
More information: http://pan.uvic.ca
About the PolarLink Project
PolarLink is a technology demonstration CubeSat mission led by UVic CfAR and funded by Defense Research Development Canada (DRDC). The mission involves the development and launch of a 6U CubeSat equipped with multiple communication payloads, including:
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Ka-band terminal for satellite-to-ground communications
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SDA-compliant optical terminal for inter-satellite links with commercial LEO constellations
The goal is to explore high-bandwidth, low-latency communication solutions for the Canadian Arctic.
Position Description
The MASc student will work with CfAR engineers under joint supervision from Prof. Afzal Suleman and Prof. Jianping Pan, contributing to research and technical development relating to computer networks and satellite communications.
This is an on-site position at the University of Victoria campus.
Research Responsibilities
May include, but are not limited to:
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Designing ground-based and in-orbit experiments for communication testing
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Developing software and firmware for embedded systems and test platforms
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Conducting satellite mission analysis and CONOPS development (e.g., using Ansys STK)
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Supporting satellite subsystem evaluation and selection
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Preparing technical presentations, reports, and academic publications
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Assisting with satellite payload and platform integration
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Other project-related duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
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Undergraduate degree in Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
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Experience with Python, MATLAB, C, C++
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Experience with RTOS and embedded systems
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Proficiency with UNIX/Linux environments and networking tools
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Familiarity with collaborative software development workflows (e.g., git)
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Strong ability to read and interpret technical documentation
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Strong verbal and written communication skills in English
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Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience with RF systems, satellite communications, or orbital systems
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Experience with simulations and scientific computing
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Participation in aerospace, satellite, or amateur radio student teams
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Amateur radio license (any level, any country)
To Apply
Submit the following via email to apply.cfar@uvic.ca:
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Cover Letter
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Resume
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Unofficial Transcript
Important:
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In your cover letter, confirm your ability to relocate to Victoria, BC for January 2026.
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Include contact information for at least two professional references.
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Incomplete applications will not be considered.
For questions or accommodation requests: apply.cfar@uvic.ca
Equity Statement
UVic is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and human rights in its academic and work environments. We actively encourage applications from members of historically and systemically marginalized groups.