PhD Positions in AI, Semiconductor Technology, and Energy Applications

About the Role

imec, the world-leading R&D hub in nanoelectronics and digital technologies headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, is opening its next PhD application window from 22 June to 8 July 2026. Interviews for selected candidates take place in August 2026. The programme offers 150+ PhD positions across diverse fields with over 800 PhD students from 40+ countries currently enrolled.

imec acts as a host research institute in collaboration with selected Belgian universities, primarily KU Leuven. PhD topics include AI for energy applications, chip-scale photonics, quantum computing, semiconductor process technology, and neural interfaces. Each candidate selects a topic from the available list and applies during the open window.

Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research on an imec-defined topic within AI, energy, semiconductors, or related fields
• Work in imec’s state-of-the-art cleanroom, fab, or computing facilities alongside permanent researchers and industry partners
• Publish in top peer-reviewed venues and present at international conferences
• Collaborate with industry partners including major semiconductor and technology companies
• Contribute to technology transfer and patent filing where research outcomes warrant it
• Complete a doctoral degree at a Belgian partner university (primarily KU Leuven)

Requirements

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in electrical engineering, physics, computer science, chemistry, or a closely related field
• Strong academic record with evidence of research potential
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Motivation to work in a fast-paced industry-linked research environment
• Applications during the June 22 to July 8 open window only

Nice to Have

• Prior internship or research experience in semiconductor industry or advanced materials
• Published conference or journal papers as part of a Master’s thesis
• Familiarity with industry-grade EDA tools, cleanroom processes, or deep learning frameworks
• Interest in hardware-software co-design or AI accelerator architectures

How to Apply

Visit imec’s PhD opportunities page at imec-int.com/en/work-at-imec/job-opportunities/phd-at-imec during the 22 June to 8 July 2026 application window to browse available PhD topics and submit your application. You will receive a technical paper related to your chosen topic before the interview. Interviews are held via Microsoft Teams (or in person for Belgium-based candidates) in August 2026.