6GNet 2024 Keynotes
Keynote #1
Title: Semantics-native Communication and Protocol Learning in the 6G Era
Abstract: This keynote talk will first provide a brief introduction of VisionX sitting at the intersection of learning, reasoning and communication in terms of key enablers and mathematical tools, while contrasting it with current efforts in this exciting research area. Subsequently, recent results in semantics-native communication and learning emergent communication protocols in various use cases will be presented. This talk will highlight the importance of transmitting semantic information as opposed to raw data that is either redundant, stale or useless to a receiver to carry out a task.
Mehdi Bennis
(Head of of the intelligent connectivity and networks/systems group / University of Oulu, Finland)
Bio: Dr. Mehdi Bennis is a full Professor at the Centre for Wireless Communications, University of Oulu, Finland and head of the intelligent connectivity and networks/systems group (ICON). His main research interests are at the intersection of communication and ML in 5G/6G networks. He has published 300+ research papers in international conferences, journals and book chapters. He has been the recipient of several prestigious awards including the 2015 Fred W. Ellersick Prize from the IEEE Communications Society, the 2016 Best Tutorial Prize from the IEEE Communications Society, the 2017 EURASIP Best paper Award for the Journal of Wireless Communications and Networks, the all-University of Oulu award for research, the 2019 IEEE ComSoc Radio Communications Committee Early Achievement Award and the 2020-2023 Clarviate Highly Cited Researcher by the Web of Science. Dr Bennis is a Specialty Chief Editor for Data Science for Communications in the Frontiers in Communications and Networks journal and an IEEE Fellow.
Keynote #2
Title: Beyond Connectivity: Pioneering the Future of Next-Generation Networks
Abstract: Next-generation networks are set to transform global connectivity by fusing digital and physical realms – enabling ambient technologies and augmented human experiences. This keynote will explore the transformative potential of advancements in networking, cloud, and AI, that are set to redefine connectivity, from today’s networks to the burgeoning potential of novel networking capabilities and cognizant (level-5) autonomy. We will delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by these innovations. Attendees will gain insights into the future landscape of global connectivity, understanding how these advancements will impact industries, economies, and daily life. Join us to envision a world where seamless, ultra-fast, and intelligent networks empower every aspect of human endeavor, driving progress and innovation in the digital age.
Meryem Simsek
(Head of Network Architecture Research Lab / Nokia Bell Labs (USA))
Bio: Dr. Meryem Simsek is head of the Network Architecture Research (NAR) Lab at Nokia Bell Labs and is leading an interdisciplinary team of experts to drive network architecture innovations across multiple network layers and across all network segments. Previously, Dr. Simsek has held various scientific leadership roles with VMware, Intel Labs, UC Berkeley, International Computer Science Institute (ICSI) Berkeley, and Technical University Dresden. Her research background and interest span a wide range of topics including but not limited to distributed systems, (mobile) network technologies, cloud computing, AI/ML and multi-agent systems, game theory, and control theory. Dr. Simsek is the recipient of the IEEE Communications Society Fred W. Ellersick Prize in 2015, the Rising Star in Computer Networking and Communications by N2Women in 2019, the Edge Computing World Edge Women of the year top 10 finalist in 2022, and the IEEE ComSoc Tactile Internet Technical Committee Service award in 2023.
Keynote #3
Title: TBA
Abstract: TBA
Robert Soni
(Vice President – Radio Access Network (RAN) Technology / AT&T, USA)
Bio: Rob Soni is responsible for all aspects of AT&T’s RAN architecture and infrastructure technical road maps for hardware and software, including baseband units, radios, antennas and all ancillary components. In addition, his team oversees certification and development for RAN hardware, software and features. This team drives our strategy and contributions to global standards and to technical industry and government organizations.
Prior to joining AT&T, he led RAN architecture at VMware, overseeing their cloud platform infrastructure technology, including product definition and portfolio strategy. Rob also held technical roles with Nokia Bell Labs, Alcatel-Lucent, and Lucent driving architecture, innovation and strategy for their entire wireless portfolio with a more recent particular focus on cloud RAN and 5G.
Through his many key roles on the product side driving cellular infrastructure, Rob has driven large teams and small teams to provide innovative solutions that have reached significant market penetration across 3G, 4G, and 5G networks in several large wireless operators around the world. He has supported and developed technologies that significantly improved performance, increased resiliency, significantly decreased power consumption and reduced total cost of ownership.
Rob holds a doctorate and master’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a bachelor’s in science in electrical engineering from the University of Cincinnati. He currently lives in Columbus, Ohio, with his wife and three children