Starting a PhD is an opportunity to explore new questions, deepen existing knowledge and contribute to research with fresh perspectives. It also marks the beginning of a journey that brings together academic interests, practical challenges and new opportunities for collaboration.
Davide has recently joined the Free Space team to pursue his PhD research on metasurfaces for miniaturised GNSS antennas, with a particular focus on applications for CubeSats and other small satellites.
Let's get to know Davide and discover more about his research journey.
What scientific or technological question would you like to help answer through your PhD research?
I’d like to understand how metasurfaces — thin structures designed to control electromagnetic waves — can improve miniaturised GNSS antennas for small satellites. I’m particularly interested in what happens when these structures have to fit into a very limited space and interact with the satellite itself. The aim is to improve antenna performance while preserving the signal characteristics needed for accurate positioning.
What practical applications could your research lead to, and
what real-world challenges could it help address?
The research could help develop compact antennas for receiving satellite navigation signals on CubeSats and other small satellites, supporting positioning and orbit determination. A practical challenge is to achieve reliable performance with very little space and weight available. I’d like to explore solutions that account for these constraints from the beginning and can eventually be manufactured and tested.
Was there a particular experience, project or moment that
inspired you to pursue this specific research field?
My master's thesis work on reducing mutual coupling between antennas was an important step in developing this interest. It gave me the opportunity to work with electromagnetic structures and see how design choices affect antenna performance. I found that process engaging, and it encouraged me to explore the subject further through research focused on space applications.
What do you think being part of the Free Space team will bring
to your research journey, and what do you hope to contribute
to the group?
I’m looking forward to working with the Free Space team and learning from their experience and expertise. I know I have a lot to learn, especially about how research ideas develop into practical engineering solutions and how challenges are approached in industry. For me, this apprenticeship is an opportunity to build on my academic background through collaboration with experienced engineers. I hope to contribute my knowledge of electromagnetics and antenna simulation, while developing new skills by asking questions, exchanging ideas, and working through problems with the team’s guidance.
Looking three years ahead, what achievement would make you
feel that you have made a meaningful contribution through your
PhD?