JobID=1c
Overview
PhD Position in Digital AI chips for Next-Gen Analog/RF Systems (TU Delft – NXP). Join TU Delft and work with NXP to build low-power AI accelerators for self-healing analog/RF calibration, fixing noise/offset. Co-design algorithms & hardware and validate on real silicon.
As communication and sensing systems push towards higher frequencies and bandwidths (e.g., 6G, automotive radar), analog and RF front-ends face a fundamental wall. In advanced CMOS nodes, designing analog circuits that are perfectly linear, matched, and noise-free is challenging and power-hungry. The classic approach of over-designing analog hardware is no longer sustainable.
This project pioneers a new paradigm: we design smart, low-power digital AI co-processors that learn and correct the imperfections of their analog counterparts in real-time. As a PhD researcher, you will:
- Architect and design novel digital AI accelerators that directly target analog impairments in ADCs and PAs.
- Co-design algorithms and hardware with experts from TU Delft and NXP. Apply hardware-aware AI techniques (quantization, pruning) to create ultra-efficient solutions that fit tight power and area budgets.
- Quantify real-world impact by benchmarking your silicon prototype against traditional DSP methods. Measure system-level improvements on actual analog test chips in NXP’s labs.
You will be supervised by Dr. Chang Gao and Prof. Leo de Vreede and will have daily access to TU Delft’s IC design facilities, with support from Dr. Maarten Molendijk, Dr. Robert van Veldhoven at NXP Semiconductors in Eindhoven for design reviews and hands-on lab measurements.
Electronic Circuits and Architectures (ELCA)
Join a pioneering research team dedicated to advancing the design and development of high-performance electronic circuits and systems. You will be part of the Electronic Circuits and Architectures (ELCA) section within the Department of Microelectronics at TU Delft. ELCA leads cutting-edge research in integrated circuit design, enhancing power efficiency, frequency performance, and functionality across RF, mm-wave, and wireless communication systems. The group bridges fundamental science with practical applications, pushing the boundaries of analog and digital circuit architectures.
You will have access to state-of-the-art design and testing facilities, including advanced fabrication technologies and specialized measurement labs. As part of a dynamic and interdisciplinary team, you will collaborate with experts in circuit design, signal processing, and emerging semiconductor technologies. The research environment fosters innovation through open collaboration and knowledge exchange. With strong mentorship, tailored training, and minimal hierarchical barriers, ELCA provides an ideal setting for academic and professional growth in the rapidly evolving field of electronic circuits and systems.
Job requirements
- MSc degree in Electrical / Electronic / Computer Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Solid background in digital IC design and digital signal processing.
- Strong command of English.
Nice to have:
- Practical experience with machine-learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch).
- Prior tape-out experience (ASIC or a complex FPGA prototype) and familiarity with the digital back-end flow (synthesis, P&R, timing closure).
- Knowledge of low-power digital design techniques (e.g., clock/power gating, DVFS).
- A strong curiosity about the challenges of analog/mixed-signal circuits (ADCs and PAs) and a passion for bridging the digital/analog divide.
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is renowned for combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world-class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. Our engineers are entrepreneurial problem-solvers in business and social contexts.
At TU Delft we value diversity as a core value and strive to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We invite you to apply and your application will receive fair consideration. Challenge. Change. Impact!
Faculty Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines to drive technology for everyday life. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position, with more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students. We invite you to explore our Faculty website for more information.
Conditions of employment
PhD candidates are offered a 4-year employment period, typically in two contracts: an initial 1.5-year contract with an official go/no-go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years if performance requirements are met.
Salary and benefits follow the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3,059 per month in the first year to €3,881 in the fourth year. You will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School, which provides a supportive research environment and a Doctoral Education Programme to develop transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
The TU Delft compensation package may include health-insurance discounts and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
Relocation assistance is available. The university offers services to help you settle in and a Dual Career Programme to support accompanying partners.
Additional information
If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Dr. Chang Gao at
Application procedure
Interested candidates should apply by 16 Nov 2025 via the application button and upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) including publication list or Google Scholar link
- Motivational Letter (maximum 1 page) describing interest and experience relevant to digital ASIC design
- Transcripts of BSc and MSc studies (course lists and grades in English)
- A copy or link to MSc thesis
Address your application to Dr. Chang Gao. Proficiency in English is required for communication and coursework in English-taught Doctoral Education programs.
Notes:
- Applications must be submitted online; emails or posts are not processed.
- A pre-employment screening may be part of the selection procedure.
- A knowledge security check will be part of the application procedure for final candidates. More information on this check is available in the National Knowledge Security Guidelines. This check is conducted on legitimate interest basis.
- Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
Faculty/Department: Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics & Computer Science
FTE: 1
Submission is possible until: 16 Nov 2025
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