About the opportunity
The Chair of Embedded Systems at Ruhr-Universität Bochum is seeking two research associates for a three-year, full-time PhD position starting January 1, 2027. The team conducts research on approximate computing, reconfigurable accelerators for machine learning, and fault-tolerant embedded systems. As part of the BMFTR-funded EURO-NPU project, these roles involve developing ultra-efficient edge AI processors, exploring dynamically reconfigurable architectures, and taking academic concepts through to a physical ASIC tapeout. Successful candidates will have creative autonomy to investigate novel microarchitectural paradigms and model co-design, working within a consortium of 11 industry and academic partners.
Salary and benefits
- Salaried position based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L), typically pay grade E13
- Opportunity to pursue a PhD with creative research autonomy
- Collaboration with a committed team and international industry/academic partners
- Extensive training and professional development opportunities
- Qualified on-boarding and induction process
- Access to free language courses for employees
Who can apply?
- Excellent Master’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field
- Strong background in computer architecture, digital frontend design (RTL, e.g., SystemVerilog), or HW/SW co-design
- Practical familiarity with standard EDA tools (e.g., Synopsys VCS, Cadence Xcelium, AMD/Xilinx Vivado)
- Fluency in English (written and oral); competence in German or willingness to learn is required
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment
Required documents
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic certificates and relevant work references
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-10-20
How to apply
- Prepare application documents including cover letter, CV, and certificates
- Submit application via the official online application portal
- Reference number ANR 6188 must be mentioned in the application
Additional information
- The position is subject to final approval of funding
- If funded by third-party funds, there is no teaching obligation
- The Staff Council may participate in selection interviews upon candidate request
- Travel and application costs cannot be reimbursed
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Candidates with a strong background in RTL design and EDA toolflows who are eager to bridge the gap between academic research and physical silicon tapeout.
- Researchers interested in the intersection of machine learning hardware accelerators and approximate computing.
- Individuals seeking a structured PhD path within a large, well-connected European research consortium.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is fixed-term for three years, which is a standard but finite duration for a PhD program.
- Candidates must be prepared to work in a bilingual environment (German/English) and commit to learning the other language if not already fluent.
- The role requires a high degree of independence and the ability to manage complex, multi-partner research projects.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity is ideal for early-career researchers aiming to complete a PhD while gaining hands-on experience in industrial-grade chip design and large-scale collaborative research. It provides a clear pathway for those looking to specialize in edge AI and hardware-software co-design within a prestigious German university setting.
Our take
This is an excellent opportunity for highly motivated graduates in engineering or computer science who want to combine theoretical research with practical silicon realization. It is less suitable for those who prefer purely theoretical work or who are not interested in the collaborative, project-driven nature of large-scale consortium research.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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