NJU Intelligent Networks and Communications

NINE（NJU Intelligent Networks and Communications) institute established in March 2024 is led by Prof. Kun Yang, a Member of Academia Europaea (MAE), an IEEE Fellow, and a National Distinguished Expert. The institute focuses on advancing the intelligent evolution and innovation of networks and communications, such as communication theory, algorithms, network science, optimization theory, machine learning, and edge intelligence. In particular, it explores solutions to leverage next-generation artificial intelligence (AI) to empower future communication networks (such as 6G), enabling intrinsic intelligence across all layers of the communication protocol stack. The ultimate goal is to achieve self-evolving and sustainable networks that truly empower various industries and support emerging economic forms such as the marine economy and low-altitude economy, making them cornerstones of national economic development.

The institute emphasizes a close integration of theoretical research and engineering practice. It possesses a comprehensive experimental platform covering the full stack from links to wireless access networks, core networks, and service networks (end-edge-cloud paradigm), enabling experimentation and practice-driven innovation. In terms of practical applications, in addition to close collaborations with network equipment manufacturers and telecommunication operators, the institute also works with vertical industries (such as energy, water resources, manufacturing, agriculture, and smart homes). It aims to tackle key challenges in the Internet of Things (IoT), achieving ubiquitous access and intelligent interaction among heterogeneous IoT devices with diverse interface requirements in complex application scenarios, thus contributing to the development of the industrial Internet and smart living.

The institute undertakes multiple projects under National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), including three key programs, several general and youth programs, key projects under the Ministry of Science and Technology, key talent and R&D projects in Jiangsu Province, as well as industry-funded collaborations with leading enterprises such as China Mobile, Huawei, and Zhongxing Telecommunication Equipment Corporation (ZTE). It also actively cooperates with small and medium-sized IoT enterprises and vertical sectors.

The institute relies on the School of Intelligent Software and Engineering in Nanjing University and leverages the institutional strength of the nation’s top-tier Computer Science and Technology program (A+ rating in China’s Discipline Evaluation). It is also supported by national-level platform, the State Key Laboratory of Computer Software New Technology (NJU-CSNT).

Contact Information

• Contact Person: Mrs. Wei
• Email: huixiaweisz@nju.edu.cn
• Address: Room 216, East Wing, Nanyong Building, Nanjing University Suzhou Campus, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China