Zixiao Zhang
Rising Star
What encouraged you to submit your application to the 2023 Postgraduate Research Publication of the Year?
I was encouraged to submit my application due to the significant impact my research has had on wireless communication technologies for next generation communication systems. It has been recognized for providing unprecedented scalability and reconfigurability to generate various transfer functions, essential for the evolving demands on RF front end in wireless communication systems. I have also received encouragement and support from my supervisor Prof. Dimitra Psychogiou to share it with a wider audience through this award. Applying for and potentially winning this award presents an invaluable opportunity for my professional growth.
What inspired you to choose the subject of your paper?
The emerging need for RF transceivers that can support multiple standards and modes of operation while maintaining low size, weight, and power consumption (SWaP) inspired my PhD project on a multifunctional RF front-end antenna interface. This paper represents the first step toward achieving my long-term research goal by investigating RF co-design methods and spatiotemporal modulation techniques which presented an opportunity to develop new solutions and aligns with my subject. My discussions with my supervisor Prof. Dimitra Psychogiou, played a crucial role in shaping my research focus and ultimately contributed to this paper.
What’s your paper about and how did you prepare for it? What role did research excellence play in your approach?
The paper is about an innovative RF co-design method based on the synthesis of spatiotemporally modulated (STM) transversal cells to incorporate bandpass filter with high reconfigurability and isolator in a single volume. To prepare for this paper, I conducted a comprehensive theoretical analysis to lay a solid scientific foundation for the study. Following this, I led the simulation and measurement of the circuits.
Research excellence played a vital role in my approach. I ensured rigor in my methodology by performing a detailed and accurate circuit synthesis through deriving equations. I maintained validity by thoroughly comparing my calculated results with simulations using commercially available software. Additionally, I guaranteed reliability by manufacturing four prototypes and characterizing all their characteristics in the lab. We made sure that all the data and results presented were robust, reliable and would contribute meaningfully to the field of RF filter designs.
The selection for Research Publication of the Year is extremely competitive. What is your advice for those aspiring for nomination next year?
I’d like to share a Chinese saying that motivates me a lot: “道阻且长，行则将至”
It means that ”though the way forward is very long and full of obstacles, but just keep going, you are getting there”. In addition to perseverance, conducting a comprehensive literature review and maintaining timely communications with peers, mentors, and experts in your field are crucial for success.
What is the single most significant support Tyndall has been able to offer you in achieving your research goals?
I have received substantial support from Tyndall in achieving my research goals, and I want to express my gratitude for the following key supports:
The support from all the related labs for sharing necessary equipment for measuring my prototypes has been invaluable. All the lab managers have been incredibly supportive and helpful, ensuring I had access to the tools and resources needed for my research.
The finance team, particularly those in the goods-in area, played a crucial role in coordinating and accelerating the process for all the orders we placed. Their assistance was essential in conducting our research efficiently and adhering to our timelines.
Zixiao Zhang and Dimitra Psychogiou, ‘Incorporating Directionality in Transversal-Resonator-Based Bandpass Filters With Tunable Transfer Function Characteristics’, IEEE Transactions on Circuits and Systems I: Regular Papers, vol. 70, no. 12, pp. 5194-5207.