Researcher - Process Design Kits (PDKs) and Compact Modeling for Wide Bandgap Technologies

About Fondazione Chips-IT

The Foundation “Italian Center for the Design of Semiconductor Integrated Circuits,” also known as the Chips-IT Foundation, is a nonprofit research and technology organization under the supervision of the Ministries of Industry.

The Foundation is Italy’s first RTO (Research and Technology Organization) vertically focused on semiconductor research and stands as a center of excellence in frontier research on semiconductor design, as well as a pivotal center of the Italian semiconductor ecosystem and expertise.

Missions Of The Foundation

• Promote the design and development of integrated circuits
• Strengthen the system of professional training in the field of microelectronics
• Ensure the establishment of a network of universities, research centers and enterprises that fosters innovation and technology transfer in the field

Posizione

The Chips-IT Foundation is seeking Researchers to contribute to cutting-edge research and development activities focused on the development of Process Design Kits (PDKs) and compact models for Wide Bandgap (WBG) semiconductor technologies within the framework of the European Chips Joint Undertaking Pilot Line initiative.

The project focuses on enabling the adoption of advanced SiC and GaN technologies through the development of technology-specific compact models, Process Design Kits, and their integration into state-of-the-art Electronic Design Automation (EDA) environments. The successful candidate will contribute to bridging technology development and integrated circuit design by supporting the creation of reliable design platforms for next-generation power, RF and mixed-signal applications.

This role will involve participating in the development, validation and maintenance of compact models and PDKs derived from TCAD simulations and experimental characterization data, ensuring compatibility with leading EDA tools and supporting the progressive maturation of the Pilot Line technologies. The work can be carried out either in Pavia or in Bologna.

Requisiti

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contribute to the development and validation of compact (SPICE-like) models for Wide Bandgap semiconductor technologies using TCAD simulation results and experimental characterization data.
• Support the development, integration and maintenance of Process Design Kits (PDKs) for emerging semiconductor technologies.
• Contribute to the implementation and qualification of PDKs for compatibility with leading Electronic Design Automation (EDA) environments.
• Collaborate with technology developers, TCAD experts and IC designers to ensure consistency between process development, device models and design environments.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical documentation, user guides and training material supporting PDK deployment.
• Participate in technical meetings, design reviews and interactions with project partners within the European Pilot Line ecosystem.
• Contribute to dissemination activities including technical reports, academic publications or conference presentations.

Requirements

• Master’s degree (or close to completion) in Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Microelectronics or a related field (Mandatory).
• Basic knowledge of semiconductor devices and integrated circuit design (Mandatory).
• Familiarity with SPICE simulation environments and compact modeling concepts.
• Basic knowledge of semiconductor process technologies and/or TCAD simulation tools is considered an advantage.
• Familiarity with Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools and Process Design Kits (PDKs) is considered a plus.
• Good analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Team spirit and motivation to contribute to innovative research and collaborative European projects.

Altre Informazioni

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive compensation and contract type, to be negotiated based on qualifications and experience
• Lunch tickets
• Possibility to enter into a PhD conjugating your job with a research program that will grant you the PhD title.
• Private health care coverage depending on your role and contract
• Structured growth path, with ongoing access to training and updates
• Networking opportunities with industry-leading professionals
• International environment
• Hybrid work policy
• Tax deductions: Candidates from abroad, comprising Italian citizens, who have carried scientific research activity abroad and meet specific requirements, may be entitled to a taxable income deduction up to 90% for a period of 6 to 13 years

In conformità con le normative vigenti, il range retributivo lordo annuo previsto per questa posizione è compreso tra Euro 30.000,00 e 60.000,00. L’ampiezza del range è finalizzata a valutare candidature con diversi livelli di seniority; l’offerta finale sarà strettamente commisurata all’effettiva esperienza e alle competenze del candidato, e sarà integrata dai benefit aziendali previsti per il ruolo.

In accordance with applicable regulations, the gross annual salary range for this position is between €30,000 and €60,000. The breadth of this range reflects our intention to consider candidates with different levels of seniority; the final offer will be commensurate with the candidate’s actual experience and qualifications and will be complemented by the benefits package associated with the role.