Scientific Assistant in Analog/Digital Integrated Circuits (ICs) for System Integration and Testing

Position Details

80%-100% | Zurich | Fixed-term

The Integrated Devices, Electronics, and Systems (IDEAS) Group develops cutting-edge system-level integrated circuits (ICs) for next-generation communication and sensing technologies, with applications in 6G, satellite communication (SATCOM), and AI data-center connectivity. Our research is funded by multiple EU, ESA, and Swiss programs and projects, contributing directly to European digital sovereignty.

These system-level IC chips are built from sophisticated transistor-level circuits and combine extensive analog, digital, and mixed-signal components that need to operate seamlessly to deliver full system functionality. Testing these complex ICs also requires automated test codes and operating high-end electronic measurement facilities.

Project Background

Next-generation communication and sensing systems rely on system-level ICs with increasing complexity and integration. These highly integrated ICs typically include sophisticated support circuits, such as:

• Programmable analog biasing circuits with temperature compensation
• High-speed digital interfaces with on-chip memory
• Mixed-signal circuits like low-power, compact analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) for on-chip performance monitoring and Built-In-Self-Testing (BIST)

The IDEAS Group has already developed and silicon-verified a range of these supporting circuits, providing a strong basis for the design of new system-level ICs. Designing these next-generation ICs is at the core of our research and technology development, along with the necessary testing to bring them to life and make real-world impacts.

Job Description

• Design, implement, and refine analog, digital, and mixed-signal support circuits for system-level ICs, such as programmable biasing circuits, temperature-compensation loops, digital programming and interface circuits, on-chip memory, and low-power compact ADCs for performance monitoring.
• Support top-level assembly of system-level ICs, including LVS, DRC, and density checks.
• Develop test PCBs, set up measurement environments, and support automated testing of complex IC chips.
• Lead the execution and analysis of system-level IC test campaigns to validate performance under various operating conditions.
• Document and investigate test anomalies.
• Prepare formal test reports for internal reviews and project deliverables.
• Develop and maintain automated test frameworks to improve repeatability, traceability, and testing efficiency.

Profile

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Microelectronics, or a related field.
• Prior experience in analog, digital, and mixed-signal IC circuit design, with familiarity with IC design tools and tapeout flows, including digital circuit synthesis.
• Prior experience in printed-circuit board (PCB) design.
• Tapeout experience is a plus.
• IC testing experience using Keysight and R&S equipment is a plus.
• Experience working in fast-paced research environments.
• Highly organized, dependable, and able to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Motivated to contribute to a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment, with a strong commitment to technical excellence.
• High professional integrity, maturity, and a constructive working style.
• Excellent communication skills in English, the IDEAS team's working language.

Workplace

The IDEAS Lab at ETH Zurich offers a stimulating, collaborative environment in a world-leading multidisciplinary electronics research team. Here, you will have the opportunity to support ongoing research projects in next-generation communication and sensing technologies, contributing to the digital revolution.

What We Offer

• A 1-year contract at the IDEAS Lab at an 80-100% workload; renewal is possible depending on performance and funding availability.
• Hands-on experience in complex system-level IC design, development, integration, and testing.
• Membership in a motivated, supportive, and collaborative team.
• The opportunity to learn from experienced researchers and technical experts while contributing to high-impact research projects.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Cover letter outlining your motivation and experience
• Concise CV
• Diploma and certificates
• A list of names and contact information for three to five references

For further information about the IDEAS Group, you can visit our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to ideas-jobs@iis.ee.ethz.ch.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. With over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries, our university promotes independent thinking and inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we forge connections all over the world to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's global challenges.