ASIC/FPGA Research Engineer - Digital Design

Job Title

ASIC/FPGA Research Engineer - Digital Design

Role Summary

Perform front-end digital hardware design in a research environment to develop ASIC and FPGA prototypes for computer architectures and systems-on-chip. Work within the Information Sciences Institute (ISI) CS&T Division on projects sponsored by government and industry (e.g., DARPA, IARPA, CHIPS Act).

Contribute to RTL development, prototype bring-up, documentation, publications, and system demonstrations in a collaborative, hybrid university setting based in Arlington, VA.

Experience Level

Mid-level. Typical experience guidance: Bachelor's degree plus >3 years of relevant experience or a Master's degree; posting lists a minimum of 5 years of experience in some fields.

Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include implementing research solutions, developing prototypes, and supporting project execution and dissemination.

• Implement RTL designs (ASIC/FPGA) and integrate into system prototypes.
• Collaborate with senior researchers to turn research ideas into implemented solutions.
• Develop, test, and debug hardware and firmware; perform FPGA bring-up.
• Document designs, produce reports and publications, and present technical results.
• Plan and execute applied research tasks; investigate feasibility of new concepts and technologies.
• May supervise or mentor staff and students supporting projects.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and experience; preferred items listed separately.

• Proven experience creating digital designs using Verilog or VHDL.
• Solid understanding of computer architecture and system-level design.
• Experience with scripting, revision control systems, and test/debug workflows.
• Experience maintaining and debugging laboratory equipment and prototype systems.
• Practical knowledge of Linux and one or more programming languages (e.g., Python, C++, Go).

Nice-to-have:

• Experience with FPGA bring-up and board-level bring-up procedures.
• Background in design verification and validation methodologies.
• Familiarity with agile hardware development practices and effective verbal communication skills.

Education Requirements

Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field. Typical qualifications listed: Bachelor's degree (with >3 years of relevant experience) or a Master's degree. The posting also notes a minimum education of a Bachelor's degree and indicates minimum experience expectations (e.g., 5 years in some contexts).

About the Company

Company: University of Southern California

Headquarters: Los Angeles, CA, USA

A private research university based in Los Angeles. USC’s Viterbi School of Engineering includes the Information Sciences Institute (ISI), which conducts sponsored research and development in computing, communications, artificial intelligence and advanced information processing, and builds prototypes and systems for government and industry partners.