Standard Cell Researcher for advanced CMOS nodes 

What you will do

You will be involved in the research & development of digital circuits for ultra-scaled dimensions. Based on imec's Design-Technology Co-Optimization (DTCO) framework you will interact with process engineering teams to develop digital circuits, mainly standard cell libraries, for advanced CMOS technology nodes beyond the 2nm node.

You will analyze trade-offs between process and design requirements to achieve an optimal DTCO driven solution for different technologies. Patterning layout studies as well as circuit electrical evaluations based on early device models will be at the heart of your job. You will also interact with system level designers to ensure a smooth power-performance-area and cost evaluation flow to assess the technology from process capabilities, up to digital system requirements.  

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at our imec office in Cambridge, UK or at our headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. We can sponsor visas for relocation to Belgium; However, please note that, as we cannot sponsor visas for the UK, working in our Cambridge office is only an option for those who already possess UK working rights.  

With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow. 

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. In everything we do, your future colleagues are guided by the imec values of passion, excellence, connectedness, and integrity. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process, not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

• The ideal candidate has a PhD in Electronics or Electrical engineering, or relevant field, or a master with at least 3 years relevant industrial experience in standard cell layout and or design. 
• You have an excellent understanding of digital logic circuit design and standard cell layout. 
• You have an understanding of advanced semiconductor fabrication processes and devices. 
• You are detail-oriented but are also comfortable in critical thinking and taking decisions to navigate the changing R&D demands. 
• You are a capable coder that utilizes the power of versioning and documentation. 
• Experience with EDA layout tools (Cadence Composer/Virtuoso, Calibre, Hspice) is a must. 
• Experience with standard cell library characterization is a plus. 
• You deeply care about customer satisfaction and quality of the delivered results. 
• You are a strong team player and a good communicator. Sharing the progress of tasks, seeking feedback from your colleagues, and acting as a soundboard, is important to you.