Background

The NanoComputing Research Lab in Integrated Circuits (IC) group within the Department of Electrical Engineering of the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is seeking to hire an outstanding PhD candidate within the Horizon Europe project PHASTRAC. This Ph.D. position focuses on mixed-signal design for neuromorphic computing, specifically centered around Oscillatory Neural Networks (ONNs). A primary research thrust within the NanoComputing Research Lab involves advancing ONN computing based on digital, mixed-signal, analog circuit for energy efficient computing. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in the development of novel brain-inspired computing architectures for advanced machine learning and artificial intelligence applications.

Candidate

We are seeking highly skilled and motivated PhD candidate to join our research team to investigate and design mixed-signal circuits for oscillatory neural networks. Candidate will be investigating and developing circuit designs to implement associative memory and solver for combinational optimization problems.  Candidate will perform research related:

• circuit design in CMOS technology nodes (e.g., 65nm, 16nm or 7nm) and for implementing oscillatory neural network models, including oscillators and synaptic circuits. Tapeout possible via Europractice.
• develop a specific ONN circuit topology for associative memory applications and as a solver for combinatorial optimization problems such as an Ising machine.
• tape out your own design to demonstrate ONN computing for associative memory and Ising solver.
• Perform extensive simulations and evaluations to assess the performance and efficiency of the designed circuits.
• Analyze and interpret simulation results and contribute to scientific publications and conferences and project technical reports.

• Holds a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or Applied Physics or related discipline.
• Strong background in analog/mixed-signal circuit design, including experience with CMOS technology and VLSI design.
• Knowledge of neuromorphic computing principles and familiarity with oscillatory neural network models is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in analog design tools, such as Cadence or Synopsys, for schematic entry, simulation, and layout.
• Experience with circuit-level simulations, noise analysis, and characterization of analog circuits e.g., monte-carlo analysis.
• Programming skills in languages such as MATLAB or Python
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Good communication and teamwork abilities, with a passion for research and an eagerness to learn and contribute to the field.

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 evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months. You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• 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. €2,770 max. €3,539).
• 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.