PhD in Computer Architecture for Real-Time AI at the Edge Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

Join the NWO Perspectief FIND program at Eindhoven University of Technology and contribute to the design of next-generation computer architectures for real-time, energy-efficient AI at the edge. This PhD position is embedded in the Electronic Systems (ES) group within the Electrical Engineering department, renowned for its research in design automation and embedded systems. The research focuses on enabling large AI models to run on embedded and edge systems under strict timing, energy, and memory constraints, targeting industrial applications such as semiconductor manufacturing, automotive radar, smart mobility cameras, and HealthTech.

Current solutions often rely on general-purpose CPUs or GPUs, which are not optimized for predictable real-time performance and struggle with the complexity and resource demands of foundation models. This project aims to deliver architectural and algorithmic breakthroughs, including hardware-aware optimization and co-design with accelerators (FPGAs, GPUs, near-memory systems), to achieve deterministic, deadline-compliant AI inference tailored for industrial edge systems. You will explore model compression and co-optimization with hardware, ensuring that architectural decisions like token merging, sparsity exploitation, and quantization are aligned with hardware datapaths and memory hierarchies.

The FIND program is a collaborative effort funded by the Dutch government and industry, involving five universities, eleven companies, and two knowledge institutes. Partners include ASML, NXP, Canon, ASMPT, Technolution, Signify, Shell, Stryker, TNO, and others. The research will be validated in collaboration with ASMPT, a leader in electronics manufacturing solutions, demonstrating how edge devices can execute foundation models with guaranteed performance and minimal energy footprint.

As a PhD candidate, you will be part of a vibrant academic community at TU/e, located in Brainport Eindhoven—a world-leading tech region with over 7,000 high-tech companies. The university offers a dynamic and ambitious environment, high-quality training programs, excellent technical infrastructure, and a range of benefits including a competitive salary, pension scheme, paid leave, and allowances for commuting and home working. International candidates benefit from a tax compensation scheme and support from the Staff Immigration Team.

Applicants must hold a master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Embedded Systems, or a related field, with strong hardware design skills. Required expertise includes computer architecture, digital design, real-time systems, embedded systems, and hardware/software co-design. Experience with hardware acceleration (FPGAs, GPUs, SoCs) and low-power design is necessary. Familiarity with deep learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow) is a plus. Candidates must be able to work in interdisciplinary teams, be motivated to develop teaching skills and coach students, and be fluent in spoken and written English at C1 level.

To apply, submit your application online via the provided link, including a cover letter, CV with publications, and contact information for three references. Only complete applications will be considered. The vacancy will remain open until filled, with a deadline of June 30, 2026. Applications sent by email or post will not be processed. A pre-employment screening may be part of the selection procedure.

This is a unique opportunity to advance the state-of-the-art in real-time AI for edge computing, working in close collaboration with industry leaders and contributing to impactful research in a world-class academic setting.