Experimental Mask Designer Initial 12 month freelance contract + possible extensionsLeuven, Belgium (3 days onsite/week)40 hours/weekStart date – 1st AprilOur client is looking for a talented mask designer for experimental process flows. Contrary to typical CMOS chip design, there is no PDK for these exploratory technologies, and the exact buildup and process flow is often subject to change. The design therefore asks for understanding about the relationship between design/geometry, devices, and fabrication.The assignmentCollect requirements and specifications from fabrication, characterization and application specialists Together with the involved researchers, define the required DoE for the project / tape-out, and from this, define the structures needed for high-quality fabrication, like litho marks, thickness measurement structures, … Create and review the design/layout for the maskset Order the masks and deliver them to the fabrication specialists Set up the test plan and testing files in collaboration with the characterization engineer Required knowledge and skillsMaster’s degree or Ph.D. in Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, or a related technical field. Basic understanding of microfabrication techniques, e.g. deposition, etching, lithography, … Insight in electrical systems is a plus, but not a must Some experience with design software like KLayout or Cadence. Experience programming, particularly in python, will also come in handy, as some designs are created more efficiently through code. Be assertive and communicative, so you can effectively ask all stakeholders for their input. Only through interaction and collaboration will the designs be as good as they could be. Structured in executing and documenting the work, so the design information can easily be checked by stakeholders and collaborators. It also serves as a reference for the future.