PhD on temporal noise reduction in CMOS image sensors

at  KU Leuven

PhD on temporal noise reduction in CMOS image sensors
(ref. BAP-2024-204)
Laatst aangepast: 03/04/24
The ADVISE research group at KU Leuven works on advanced microelectronic circuits used in challenging environments. Using deep knowledge of semiconductor device physics and microelectronic circuit design, we try to understand how circuits and devices can be made more tolerant to ionizing radiation and interactions with high-energy particles. The research group is also active on CMOS image sensors, an activity led by prof. Guy Meynants, which is a renown expert on this topic, and active in image sensors for 30 years.
The work will be performed at the Advise lab of Campus Geel, part of the Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) of KU Leuven, Europe’s most innovative university (Reuters, since 2016 till now). The group has over 30 researchers active in the field of micro-electronics for harsh environments as well as machine learning.
Website van de eenheid
Project
CMOS image sensors have reached noise levels that enable single photon detection, thanks to an increased conversion gain and some measures in the source follower of the pixel. The limitations today are excessive noise in a fraction of ’outlier’ pixels, as well as dark current shot noise and random telegraph signal and 1/f noise in the pixel source follower. Other extremely low-noise imager topologies use in-pixel avalanche (like SPADs), but that solution is limited for multi-photon detection because of its inherent dead time, and it requires in-pixel counters that consume area and power.

This research project aims at further improving noise in CMOS image sensors, without the use of avalanche effects. It comprises:

• in a first phase, understanding clearly the limitations in read noise in the pixel readout circuit (mostly a source folllower) by measurements on state-of-the art devices and correlations with device physics and TCAD simulations
• in a second phase, propose and investigate improvements, either by readout circuit, pixel topology or in-pixel device changes.
• demonstrate the selected improvements in characterized image sensor testchips.

Profiel

• Required background: a Master degree in Electrical/Electronic/Nanotechnology Engineering (or equivalent) is required, with proven knowledge of analog/mixed-signal integrated circuits (IC) and semiconductor device physics.
• Candidates should be motivated, independent, show critical thinking and scientific curiosity.
• Candidates should have strong team-player skills.
• Excellent proficiency in the English language is required, as well as good communication skills, both oral and written.

Aanbod

• A PhD scholarship for 4 years, with a very competitive monthly stipend;
• An exciting interdisciplinary research environment in the largest research department at KU Leuven, Europe’s most innovative university;
• The possibility to participate and present your research work in international conferences and collaborations;
• The possibility to interact and collaborate with industry.

More information on prof. Meynants’ research and background
Link to 2023 IISW, showing state-of-the art image sensor technology
Interesse
For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Guy Meynants, tel.: +32 14 72 14 79, mail: guy.meynants@kuleuven.be.
You can apply for this job no later than May 17, 2024 via the online application tool

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

• Sollicitatieprocedure
• Arbeidsvoorwaarden
• Loopbaanmogelijkheden

Heb je een vraag over de online sollicitatieprocedure? Raadpleeg onze veelgestelde vragen of stuur een e-mail naar solliciteren@kuleuven.be
avtimer
Tewerkstellingspercentage: Voltijds
locationcity
Locatie : Geel
timer
Solliciteren tot en met:

Please refer the Job description for details