What you will do
Continued technology scaling and the integration of heterogeneous technologies are increasing the complexity of power delivery, thermal management, and energy optimization across the entire computing stack. Emerging technologies such as fine-grain 3D integration, advanced packaging, backside power delivery networks, and chiplet-based architectures require new methodologies to model and optimize system behaviour beyond the traditional chip boundary.
You will develop modelling frameworks that capture power and thermal interactions across multiple levels of abstraction, from devices and circuits to complete computing systems. You will study how architectural decisions, workload characteristics, packaging technologies, cooling solutions, and advanced integration schemes impact system-level energy efficiency, performance, and thermal behaviour.
A key aspect of the work is developing simulation flows, analysis methodologies, and predictive models that enable Design-Technology and System-Technology Co-Optimization (DTCO/STCO) studies for future systems. You will work closely with device, circuit, architecture, and physical design researchers to evaluate novel technology options and identify opportunities for breakthrough improvements in system efficiency. A central research question in this role is how to translate imec’s emerging semiconductor technologies into their coupled system-level impacts on power, thermal, energy, and performance, and how to build the modelling and simulation infrastructure needed to analyse these interactions simultaneously and guide technology and system design.
You will be part of a multidisciplinary team exploring future computing platforms. You will regularly present research results to industrial partners and contribute to publications, technology assessments, and strategic research directions.
What we do for you
We offer you an exciting position in a rapidly growing, multi-disciplinary team, and a unique chance to interact closely with circuit designers, device experts and process integration engineers. You will have high impact and visibility through potential publications and interactions with major foundry, fabless and EDA partners in imec’s eco-system.
You will have the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium or at its office in Cambridge, UK. 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 Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
- You have experience with power, thermal, or energy-efficiency modelling.
- You have a solid understanding of computer architecture and heterogeneous computing systems.
- You understand advanced semiconductor technologies, packaging, and system integration challenges.
- You have experience developing simulation frameworks and research software.
- You are proficient in scientific programming and data analysis.
- You are detail-oriented but comfortable with critical thinking and navigating evolving research challenges.
- You embrace collaboration, version control, and documentation.
- You care deeply about the quality and impact of your research results.
- You are a strong team player and an effective communicator.