Scientific Assistant in Analog/Digital Integrated Circuits (ICs) for 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.

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

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. The anticipated start date is Monday, 3 August 2026.

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, and mixed-signal circuits such as 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 the core of our research and technology development, along with the testing required to bring them to life and make real-world impacts.

This position is intended for a candidate who can design, implement, and refine analog, digital, and mixed-signal support circuits for integration into future system-level ICs. The work will support real-world applications and help advance next-generation communication, computation, and sensing systems. The successful candidate will also develop test PCBs, set up measurement environments, and perform automated testing of the developed ICs.

Job description

• Design, implement, and refine analog, digital, and mixed-signal support circuits for system-level ICs. Example circuits include but are not limited to 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

We offer

• 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

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 in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with 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.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.