Birmingham sensing systems researcher awarded Royal Academy of Engineering Research Chair

Professor Michail Antoniou, Chair in RF Sensing Systems in the School of Engineering, was recently awarded a prestigious Research Chair by the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng), supported by global defence and security company QinetiQ.

Professor Antoniou’s research interest is in the extraction of information through radar systems and signal processing. As RAEng Chair, he will focus on breaking down the barriers between the theory and practice of distributed radar systems through basic and applied research on enabling technologies, intelligent signal processing, and real-world performance limits.

The project aims to break the barriers between the theory and practice of distributed radar systems through basic and applied research on their enabling technologies, such as delivering precision timing and positioning, intelligent signal processing, and real-world performance limits, to pave the way for their ultimate adoption.

Professor Michail Antoniou said:

"The radar systems of the future will be distributed and connected, with applications ranging from space-based remote sensing to supporting operations in smart cities and enabling connected and autonomous vehicles. To enact this vision, the Fellowship will elevate the leading expertise and infrastructure developed here at Birmingham to new heights. It will enable us to advance the theory and practice of designing these systems, ensuring they operate in unison and achieve a combined performance that is greater than the sum of their parts."

Professor Karl Dearn, Head of the School of Engineering, University of Birmingham said:

"As Head of the School of Engineering, I am delighted to congratulate Professor Antoniou on receiving his prestigious RAEng Research Chair. His work in distributed and connected RF sensing is advancing next-generation technologies that promise a bright future for radar systems. This award also exemplifies The School’s commitment to fostering strong industry-academic partnerships, which are essential for translating our pioneering research into real-world impact.

Through this QinetiQ/Royal Academy of Engineering Research Chair, Professor Antoniou’s work will not only push the boundaries of radar technology but also reinforce our ties with industry to ensure that our research directly meets the needs of industrial partners. This Chair highlights our ongoing legacy at Birmingham, where the Microwave Integrated Systems Laboratory (MISL) continues to lead in radar innovation, building on the foundational development of radar technology that began here. It is a tremendous step forward in our commitment to world-leading, impactful research that supports both academic and industrial advancement."

The position of RAEng Research Chair comes with significant prestige. For over 35 years, the scheme has supported over 200 academic appointments and internationally renowned centres of excellence. Awardees are expected to establish or enhance world-leading engineering groups during their appointment and will become self-sustaining by the end of the award through significant grant income. The scheme is recognised for supporting the development of transformative engineering innovations through industry-academia collaboration. It aims to strengthen links between industry and academia, supporting academics in UK universities to undertake use-inspired research to meet the needs of industrial sponsors.

In addition to funding from both the RAEng and QinetiQ, Professor Antoniou will also benefit from a package of support, including mentoring support from experienced Academy Fellows and access to training, events, networking and additional funding opportunities.