About High-Int

High-Int is a Vinnova project, funded under the Smartare Elektroniksystem framework.

Wireless communications are rapidly evolving. In particular, users are demanding new services in the present networks that require of higher data transfer. The new generation of mobile communications, 5G, started to be deployed at the end of 2019. However, 5G will only cover the present needs of the users. Further research to increase the rates of wireless communications is needed now to cover the expectations in a near future. Since most of the low frequency spectrum is already crowded, the only possibility is increasing the operational frequency where narrow bands permit larger data transfer and short delays.

High-Int will enable a complementary cooperation between both Ericsson and KTH. KTH has experience in the development of innovative antenna solutions, typically fully-metallic antennas based on the concept of lenses and leaky-waves, and Ericsson AB is a leading technology-driven company in telecommunications.


Interview with Elena Pucci

Elena Pucci is a Research Engineer at Ericsson AB in Kista. She is leading the research activities of High-Int in Ericsson in Stockholm.

When and why did you decide to pursue a career in electromagnetics?

During my master degree studies in 2006 at University of Siena (Italy). During this period I had to give exams on Antennas, Electromagnetics and Microwaves subjects in order to pursue my degree. Initially I had some difficulties in understanding electromagnetic waves behavior, I remember always questioning in my mind "how is it possible that we cannot 'see' these waves around us, but they are present everywhere...?!". However, the more I could not understand the subject, the more I was interested into it and started to look at this more and more, till the point that I started to like it! Behind a great subject there is always a great professor and that was my luck in Siena, because I had the pleasure of interacting with Prof Maci, Prof Toccafondi, Prof Capolino and Prof Albani who are experts in the field of electromagnetics and antennas and transferred to me their enthusiasm toward these subjects. Here my EM journey began!

What challenges are you addressing in Ericsson AB at the moment?

We are working toward the research and development of 5G and Beyond-5G antenna solutions. With the introduction of 5G mobile networks the concept of 'passive antennas' is replaced by the one of 'active antennas' and 'fully integrated antennas'. The main challenges reside in the integration aspects with electronics and the reduced dimensions (which scale down with the increase of the frequency). We look for innovative solutions which can be cost-effective and provide high efficiency.

What are your long-term goals for your career in electromagnetics at Ericsson AB?

Ericsson provides a great environment to work and grow professionally. It is a worldwide leader, with a multicultural environment where the need for diversity is a company top aspect. During my 5 years here I have had the opportunity to work in several projects and learn a lot from interacting with experts in different area. We are now investing a lot on antenna research and there is always room for career development in the company. My long term goal is to contribute to the success of 5G and beyond that, and to seek continuous learning in aspects that are within my area of expertise and also outside of it.