PhD on temporal noise reduction in CMOS image sensors

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 unit

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.

Profile

• 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.

Offer

• 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

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Guy Meynants, tel.: +32 14 72 14 79, mail: guy.meynants@kuleuven.be.

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.