EDA Researcher

Explore novel ways to develop and optimize EDA for advanced CMOS technologies, working towards future implementations that utilize fine-grain 3D integration of heterogeneous technologies.

What you will do

You design and develop EDA approaches to address the current limitations of industrial and open-source tools concerning the targeting of advanced CMOS technologies.

Main focus of the work will be geared towards addressing EDA challenges within a CMOS 2.0 context. Fine-grain 3D integration of heterogeneous technologies poses novel challenges across the whole EDA spectrum from logic synthesis to thermal modelling.

Your task will be to ensure accurate and trustworthy DTCO research in technology and design contexts which are yet to be optimized by state-of-the-art EDA. This is the first time that imec’s pathfinding activities will incorporate an EDA optimization and development perspective. Therefore, this is a rare opportunity to work on the bleeding edge of digital technologies combined with EDA. Furthermore, you work together with imec partners to disseminate the EDA and technology insights. Additionally, you interact with universities for further development of EDA solutions that leverage novel technology capabilities.

What we do for you

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

• You have a PhD in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering, or relevant field.
• You have development experience in EDA algorithms and tools.
• You have an excellent understanding of digital physical implementation and advanced CMOS technologies.
• You are a proficient user of EDA tools (Cadence and/or Synopsys).
• You understand advanced semiconductor fabrication processes and devices.
• You are detail-oriented but are also comfortable in critical thinking and making decisions to navigate the changing R&D demands.
• You are a capable coder that utilizes the power of versioning and documentation.
• You care deeply about customer satisfaction and the quality of 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.

For imec UK: this position is open only to candidates who already hold a valid UK residence permit or work authorization. We are currently not able to provide UK visa sponsorship.

Job details

Title: EDA Researcher

Employer: imec

Location: Kapeldreef 75 Leuven, Belgium

Published: 2026-05-04

Application deadline: Unspecified

Job type: Researcher

Field: Nanotechnology, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Algorithms, Computer Architecture, Software Engineering