Design Technology Co-Optimization Researcher

As a design-technology co-optimization (DTCO) researcher, you will explore and define the technology for sub-nm devices at the cell level through process- and layout-aware modeling and benchmarking.

What you will do

In this position, you will be part of the imec department leading pathfinding of next generations semiconductor technologies, modelling and innovating with the most advanced CMOS devices and systems. As Design Technology Co-Optimization (DTCO) Researcher, you will be part of the device modelling (DEMO) team. This team takes a device-centric approach to pathfinding for future CMOS technologies in logic and memory. In this role, you will help the modelling of logic standard cells and memory bit cells: based on the layouts and integration schemes, 3D structures are simulated in TCAD then used to produce electrical compact models for both the device and the and RC parasitics due to the metal interconnects. These models are then used in circuit simulations to drive the optimization of future technologies through device-level Power-Performance-Area benchmarking. In this role, you will thus interact closely with TCAD modelling experts, integration engineers, technology and design experts. In addition, you will work closely with colleagues doing block level to full place-and-route evaluations of these technologies, working together to find multidisciplinary opportunities for improvements across design and technology. 

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in 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. 

Who you are

• The ideal candidate will have a PhD in Electronics, or relevant field, or a master with at least 5 years relevant industrial experience in compact modeling and parasitics extraction. 
• Experience with TCAD process/device simulation tools and electronic circuit simulators is a must 
• You have an excellent understanding of advanced CMOS technologies, down to the physics of nanoscale devices. 
• You understand digital design as well as advanced semiconductor fabrication processes. 
• 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 code development in Python is a major benefit. 
• 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.