"The aim of the CROSSIRE project is to provide forward-looking solutions for Long-Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) network co-existence including aspects ranging from the physical layer such as co-channel interference and cognition to the user perception of the service, i.e., Quality of Experience (QoE). The project will analyze and propose network virtualization solutions for LTE-A networks a technology which is envisioned to transform operation of cellular networks in the years to come. The project will approach the emerging LTE-A networks which will be populated by uncoordinated and vast number of small cells (micro, pico and femtocells) from an architectural and a component level perspective. We primary aim to provide a holistic understanding on issues such as co-channel interference from randomly located small-cells (unplanned deployment), efficient utilization of the scarce spectrum (via cognition), self-organization (SONs) and QoE at the end users under the assumption that LTE-A networks share a common physical infrastructure. The developed architectures, protocols and techniques will be evaluated through system level simulations and theoretical analysis. A meaningful subset of them will be evaluated through hardware proof-of-concept prototyping.The CROSSFIRE network will aim to recruit talented Early Stage Researchers (ESRs) to conduct world-leading research and offer them advanced training, mentoring and personalized career planing. ESRs will also be trained in aspects such as project management, understanding of intellectual property rights, scientific writing, presentation and communication skills and creating spin-offs. The intention, and CROSSFIRE partners are fully committed to that, will be to create well-rounded, out-of the box thinking engineers to tackle the significant challenges of next generation cellular networks that will not only be an integral part of every day life but they will also significantly shape it."