PhD Position Next-Generation Ultra-Low Power Class-D Audio Amplifiers for Portable Devices

Can you design the "voice" of the next generation of Smart Glasses? We are looking for a brilliant IC designer to push the boundaries of Class-D audio technology. Join us!

Job description

This PhD position is part of an industry collaboration project focused on next-generation ultra-low power Class-D audio amplifiers for portable devices.

As the demand for "always-on" wearable devices like Smart Glasses and Hearables grows, the audio system-on-chip (SoC) faces a critical paradox: how to deliver high-fidelity sound (high linearity) while operating on a microscopic power budget.

This PhD project focuses on the research and development of advanced Class-D audio amplifier architectures. Your goal will be to innovate beyond standard PWM techniques, exploring novel feedback loops, multi-level switching, or hybrid mixed-signal topologies to achieve unprecedented efficiency.

Key Research Objectives

• Efficiency Maximization: Reducing quiescent current and switching losses to extend the battery life of portable devices.
• THD+N Optimization: Developing innovative linearization techniques to maintain high-fidelity audio in compact, low-voltage environments.
• Silicon Realization: You will go through the full IC design cycle, from architectural modeling (MATLAB/Simulink) to transistor-level design (Cadence/Mentor) and final silicon measurement.

Why Join Us?

• Impact: Your work will directly influence the hardware architecture of future consumer electronics.
• Expertise: Work alongside a world-class team with extensive experience in mixed-signal IC design and audio systems.
• Facilities: Access to state-of-the-art cleanrooms, high-end measurement equipment (Audio Precision, high-speed oscilloscopes), and advanced CMOS process nodes.

Job requirements

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a "silicon-first" mindset. To be successful in this role, you must possess:

• Solid Foundation in Analog IC Design: Deep understanding of MOSFET physics, amplifiers, voltage references, and frequency compensation.
• Mixed-Signal Design Experience: Proven experience in designing blocks such as ADCs/DACs, comparators, or oscillators. Familiarity with the interaction between digital control logic and analog power stages.
• System Modeling Skills: Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink or Verilog-A for top-level architectural verification.
• Hands-on EDA Experience: Expert-level proficiency in Cadence Virtuoso (Spectre/APS), Mentor Graphics, or similar industry-standard toolsets.
• Academic Excellence: A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering or Microelectronics with a focus on Integrated Circuits.

Preferred but not mandatory

• Prior experience in Class-D amplifiers, Power Management ICs (PMIC), or successful tape-out experience in CMOS technologies (e.g., 180nm or 65nm).

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Delft University of Technology is a top international university combining science, engineering and design.

Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines that reinforce each other and drive the technology used in daily life. The faculty works on areas such as sustainable electricity grids, future chips and sensors, software technologies including AI, and applied mathematics. It offers strong opportunities for ground-breaking research, innovative engineering education, and excellent labs and facilities in an international environment.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract includes an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming performance requirements are met.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to making your move as smooth as possible and offers support to help you prepare for relocation and settle in the Netherlands. A Dual Career Programme is available to support an accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.