# CAREER: Exploring Spin and Angular Momentum Waves towards Future Wireless Communication Paradigms

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Nebraska-Lincoln (NE) · $550,000

## Abstract

With increasing demand for high data-rate wireless communication systems, this project will explore new methods of radio-frequency transmission and reception using novel electromagnetic wavefronts with spin and angular momentum. These wavefronts provide a means to multiplex many different data streams at the same frequency in the air to significantly increase the data rate without increasing spectral bandwidth demand. However, practical demonstrations of such communication links in the microwave to millimeter-wave frequency band have been limited.  This CAREER project explores new methods to generate and multiplex data channels using spin and angular momentum modes of electromagnetic wavefront. The research will develop enabling technologies based on electromagnetics solutions to bridge this gap through convergence of theory, design, fabrication methods, and measurement testbeds. Broadly, the proposed solutions tie into 5G wireless networks and the forthcoming 6G wireless systems. On the education part, this project will simultaneously develop industry-facing pedagogical methods, which are also inspired by the goal of increasing student engagement and integrating the research thrusts. Community outreach activities in combination with industry-academia collaborations will be pursued to support research and education goals of this project.

The project will adopt a technical approach which moves away from energy-demanding signal-processing, MIMO-processing, or data-encoding t

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2442432
- **Awardee organization:** University of Nebraska-Lincoln (NE)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** HTQ6K6NJFHA6
- **PI:** Shubhendu Bhardwaj
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Antennas and Electromagnetics, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, RF/Microwave & mm-wave tech, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
- **Estimated total:** $550,000
- **Funds obligated:** $550,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2030

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2442432

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2442432, CAREER: Exploring Spin and Angular Momentum Waves towards Future Wireless Communication Paradigms. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2442432. Licensed CC0.

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