Job title

What you will do

As the demand for faster, smaller, and more power-efficient devices is increasing, conventional memories such as SRAM and DRAM are reaching their scaling limits. Of the emerging non-volatile memory technologies, Spin Transfer Torque Magnetoresistive RAM (STT-MRAM) has broken through as the most manufacturable memory concept. Several foundries across the globe have initiated high volume manufacturing of STT-MRAM memory chips for applications ranging from cache and frame buffer memories to industrial grade MCUs and automotive chips, and most recently, for edge AI applications. While the inherent properties of STT-MRAM are immensely attractive, some challenges persist in terms of improving the power consumption at the target operating frequencies, enhancing read/write access times, and improving device reliability. 

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher who can address these challenges through material exploration, device and stack design innovation. The researcher will work in the magnetic devices (MADE) team in imec, and have the following key responsibilities: 

• You will explore and contribute towards the development of novel STT-based concepts to disrupt the status quo. Simultaneously, you will actively contribute to STT-MRAM technology development through in-depth electrical characterization and modelling. 
• You will use state-of-the-art equipment to characterize the MRAM devices in both DC and RF (1 MHz – 10 GHz) regimes to fully evaluate the memory device performance 
• You will develop new measurement schemes, if required, to elucidate the write and failure mechanisms of the concept devices 
• You will interpret results using rigorous scientific analysis, and well-established models. Further modelling of novel device concepts may also be required using standard programming tools (Python, Matlab, etc.) 
• You will prepare and disseminate these results on a regular basis to both internal project stakeholders, and external customers Through these efforts and close interactions as part of a cross-functional project team, you will contribute to the understanding of device physics and optimization of technology developments.  
• A key responsibility of this position will involve being part of a team defining new magnetic devices-based concepts for ICT applications. 

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

• You have a PhD in physics, material science, or electrical engineering 
• You have good knowledge of device physics, technology, and basic circuit knowledge.  
• You are a communicative team player, and you also like to work independently 
• You are creative and like taking initiative 
• You like to learn and expand your skills 
• You show the flexibility to change between different projects according to changing priorities 
• You possess reasonable programming skills to perform data processing and analysis (Python, Matlab). 
• Given the international character of imec, a fluent knowledge of English is necessary