Technology Demonstrator Chip Architect 

What you will do

At the heart of imec’s Connectivity Pathfinding (COP) department, the Demonstrator Architect (DEAR) unit leads the charge in redefining chiplet connectivity for next-generation AI, HPC, and Automotive systems, pioneering Chip Architectures for an interconnected future.

DEAR is seeking a visionary and technically skilled Technology Demonstrator Chip Architect to lead the design and realization of advanced silicon demonstrators that redefine chiplet connectivity for next-generation AI, HPC, and Automotive applications. As a key member, you will architect demonstrators that emulate critical physical domains, electrical, thermal, and mechanical, while integrating state-of-the-art interconnect technologies including electrical, optical, and RF.
Your work will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of chiplet-based SoC architectures by enabling early validation of breakthrough concepts and driving innovation in system and design-technology co-optimization (STCO/DTCO).

Your responsibilities will include:  

• Lead the architecture, design, and development of silicon demonstrators focused on advanced connectivity.
• Collaborate with STCO/DTCO teams to co-optimize demonstrator architecture with emerging technologies.
• Partner with integration engineers and device experts to incorporate advanced features and process innovations.
• Drive circuit design, simulation, verification, and layout for analog, mixed-signal, or digital blocks.
• Define specifications and measurement strategies for test structures and system-level integration.
• Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks through innovative design solutions.
• Define and execute testing and qualification strategies for demonstrators.
• Ensure seamless integration of components and subsystems within the demonstrator platform.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and contribute to imec’s thought leadership through publications and partner engagements.

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology in imec Cambridge, UK or in imec Leuven, Belgium. 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. 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. 

• An exciting position in a rapidly growing, multi-disciplinary team.   
• The chance to interact closely with circuit designers, device experts and process integration engineers   
• High impact and visibility through publications and interactions with imec’s major foundry, fabless and EDA partners.

Who you are

• The ideal candidate wil
• You have obtained a PhD in electronics, electrical engineering, or equivalent through experience.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in CMOS electronics design and architecture, with proven tape-out success.
• Strong background in analog, mixed-signal, or digital circuit design.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams, including collaboration with EDA vendors and foundry partners.
• Familiarity with interconnect standards such as UCIe, BoW, XSR, (LP)DDRx, HBM, AMBA, AXI, or CHI is a plus.
• Demonstrated project management skills and ability to lead complex, cross-functional projects.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to articulate ideas clearly and foster collaboration.
• Critical thinker with a proactive mindset and a passion for innovation in semiconductor technologies.
• Fluent in English and comfortable working in a multicultural environment.

We seek a candidate who thrives in a dynamic work environment, showcasing an adaptability to diverse projects or research topics. You’ll be a key team player, ready to support colleagues and tackle impactful projects within the timelines of our trusted global partners.

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter “Agency”) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.