Research Associate (PhD Candidate) - RF and Millimeter-Wave Integrated Circuits 60 - 100 %

The role is for a Research Associate (PhD Candidate) focusing on RF and Millimeter-Wave Integrated Circuits. The company, School of Engineering and Environment FHNW, Institute for Sensors and Electronics, is involved in developing next-generation communication, sensing, and synchronization systems. The main day-to-day responsibilities involve translating system-level communication and synchronization requirements into RF/mmWave circuit specifications and architectures. This includes designing, simulating, and verifying active and passive IC building blocks, performing EM design of interconnects, and characterizing fabricated ICs. The role also involves investigating various performance metrics and integrating circuits with antennas and packaging for experimental validation. To qualify, candidates must have an MSc or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics, or a related field. Experience in analog/RF integrated-circuit design and proficiency with Cadence Virtuoso or similar EDA tools are essential. A solid understanding of gain, noise, linearity, stability, and impedance matching is required, along with experience in IC layout, EM simulation, and high-frequency measurements. Nice-to-have skills include experience with SiGe BiCMOS, HBT, or RF FD-SOI technologies. The role requires an independent yet team-oriented working style, strong problem-solving skills, and good English communication skills. The position is part of an international collaboration, so the ability to report findings clearly and precisely to various stakeholders is crucial. The team values creativity, openness, and courage, and the employment contract is for a fixed term of three years. What the role asks for: - MSc or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics or related field - Experience in analog/RF integrated-circuit design - Proficiency with Cadence Virtuoso or comparable EDA tools - Solid understanding of gain, noise, linearity, stability and impedance matching - Experience with IC layout, EM simulation and high-frequency measurements - Good English communication skills - Experience with SiGe BiCMOS, HBT or RF FD-SOI technologies (nice-to-have)