DOH-16 Postdoctoral Researcher in Implantable Sensor CMOS Integrated Circuit Design
This is a full-time, fixed-term contract position based at the Microelectronic Circuits Centre Ireland (MCCI) at Tyndall National Institute.
MCCI is an industry-led technology centre that conducts world-class Analog, Mixed-Signal and RF integrated circuit research. Our mission is to deliver trained people and IP to industry while collaborating with 35 companies. Many of our staff eventually transfer into the thriving microelectronics industry in Ireland.
We have projects in diverse topics such as DNA detection for food safety, next-generation optical communications, bio-sensing, imaging for security applications, and early cancer detection.
The Project:
Advanced medical diagnosis and treatment monitoring require miniature sensor systems that can be implanted in the body. These sensors can monitor cancer tumours and neural signals in the brain. However, providing powering for these sensors is a challenge. While the size of batteries is reducing with new technologies, they remain either too large or have only a limited capacity, constraining the operating lifetime of the sensor.
The main power consumer in wireless implantable systems is the communication link to transmit the sensor data. In this work, low-power, low-area custom integrated circuits will be designed to capture the sensor data and convert it to digital using an analogue-to-digital converter (ADC). After the ADC, data reduction and compression will be implemented to minimise the amount of data to be transmitted.
These highly efficient ultra-low-power circuits will allow the implant systems to use less power and work for longer durations than ever before, ultimately improving patient and treatment outcomes.
The Role:
The successful candidate will be based at MCCI in Tyndall National Institute, Cork. They will model, architect, design, and test ultra-low-power medical implantable circuits.
Key Responsibilities:
* Engage with the multi-disciplinary team to understand the sensor signals and the application.
* Propose innovative sensor interface circuits to meet the requirements.
* With guidance, implement the solution on an integrated circuit. This involves system-level simulation, algorithm development, schematic design, layout, and validation of manufactured silicon.
* Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research, as directed by and with the support of senior MCCI research staff.
* Participate in education and public engagement activities, as required.
* Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.
* Ensure all activities are compliant with the required Health and Safety standards.
* Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.
Requirements:
* PhD in electrical engineering, electronic engineering, physics, or a related relevant discipline.
* The successful candidate will be highly analytical with good interpersonal and organisational skills.
* Experience in the area of Analogue, Mixed-Signal, or RF circuit design.
Desirable Criteria:
* Experience of digital design and verification using Verilog or VHDL.
* Experience designing CMOS integrated circuits.
* Good mathematical ability and knowledge of statistics.
* Previous use of mathematical modelling tools such as MATLAB or Python.
* Experience of lab measurements.
* Knowledge of integrated circuit design tools such as Cadence/Mentor.
Appointment Details:
Appointment will be made on the Tyndall/UCC Postdoctoral researcher scale €41,207-€47,477 per annum. Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with public sector pay policy.