Scientific Assistant in Analog​/Digital Integrated Circuits; ICs System Integration and Testing

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

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, and contributes directly to European digital sovereignty.

We are seeking a research assistant to join our IDEAS team and contribute to analog/digital circuit design, system integration, and testing of complex IC chips.

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, and mixed‑signal circuits such as low‑power, compact analog‑to‑digital converters (ADCs) for on‑chip performance monitoring and built‑in‑self‑testing.

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.

• Design, implement, and refine analog, digital, and mixed‑signal support circuits for system‑level ICs.
• 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.

• 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 tape‑out flows, including digital circuit synthesis.
• Prior experience in printed‑circuit board (PCB) design.
• Tape‑out 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.

• A 1‑year contract at the IDEAS Lab at an 80‑100% workload; renewal is possible depending on performance and funding availability.
• A stimulating, collaborative environment in a world‑leading multidisciplinary electronics research team at ETH Zurich.
• The opportunity to support ongoing research projects in next‑generation communication and sensing technologies for the digital revolution.
• 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 and European digital sovereignty.

ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected.

Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.