PhD on Mixed-Signal Circuit Design for Physics-based Computing

Introduction

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research team in the field of mixed-signal IC design, focusing on the implementation of physics-based computing paradigm. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in circuit design and experience with the IC design tapeout flow.

Job Description

The NanoComputing Research Lab in Integrated Circuits (IC) group within the Department of Electrical Engineering of the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is a leading research group dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in the field of physic-based computing. We are currently seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our team to work on the design and implementation of Oscillatory Neural Networks (ONNs) for physics-based computing applications. You as the successful candidate will be an integral part of the prestigious ERC Consolidator Grant, THERMODON on harnessing the unique capabilities of ONNs to solve combinatorial optimization problems. ONNs, inspired by the dynamics of coupled oscillators, exhibit inherent properties that enable efficient problem-solving through energy minimization. In this project, we aim to further explore and exploit the potential of ONNs in embedding graph-based problems, particularly those known to be challenging for classical computing architectures.

 Some of your responsibilities will include:

• Design and develop mixed-signal circuits for implementing ONNs.
• Modeling, simulate and benchmark different computing tasks such as combinatorial optimisation tasks and solving partial/ordinary differential equations with ONNs.
• Design and tapeout ONN chips (at least two tapeouts) as proof of concept.
• Explore ONN implementation topology and its power, performance and area.
• Collaborate with team members in NanoComputing Research Lab.
• Communicate clearly, both written and verbal.
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.

Job Requirements

• A master’s degree in electrical engineering, computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in analog and mixed-signal circuit design and simulation.
• Familiarity with IC design tools and tapeout flow and proficiency in relevant software tools (e.g., SPICE, Cadence, MATLAB).
• A research-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with industrial partners.
• Fluent in spoken and written English.

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you: 

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment. 
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,059 max. € 3,881).  
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%. 
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process. 
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.  
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates. 

Information and application

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow. 

The mission of the Department of Electrical Engineering is to acquire, share and transfer knowledge and understanding in the whole field of Electrical Engineering through education, research and valorization. We work towards a ‘Smart Sustainable Society’, a ‘Connected World’, and a healthy humanity (‘Care & Cure’). Activities share an application-oriented character, a high degree of complexity and a large synergy between multiple facets of the field.

Research is carried out into the applications of electromagnetic phenomena in all forms of energy conversion, telecommunication and electrical signal processing. Existing and new electrical components and systems are analyzed, designed and built. The Electrical Engineering department takes its inspiration from contacts with high-tech industry in the direct surrounding region and beyond.

The department is innovative and has international ambitions and partnerships. The result is a challenging and inspiring setting in which socially relevant issues are addressed.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Prof. Aida Todri-Sanial, a.todri.sanial@tue.nl, lab page and a relevant paper reference.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services (HRServices.ee@tue.nl).

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application. 
• Transcript of master and bachelor degrees.
• Copies of your final MSc thesis, including English abstracts, and (if applicable) published papers (PDF files) or Provide the links in case if too large files.
• Results of your IELTS or TOEFL test (or equivalent).

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.  A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.