AI-enhanced FAB R&D Lead

What you will do

In this role, you will technically lead a new, but growing, multidisciplinary team of ~5 researchers (and growing) to steer internal and external AI research strategies, focused on enhancing semiconductor manufacturing processes. You will collaborate with the AI Compute department, part of a larger center of 250 international professionals skilled in AI algorithms and application development. While core activities are in Leuven, remote work is flexible. If you have a strong background in AI modeling, the use of AI in the semiconductor industry (design, manufacturing) and leadership, we invite you to join imec’s mission. 

Responsibilities include:

• Strategy & Research: Collaborate with portfolio manager and different imec groups to develop and execute AI research strategies. 
• Technical team Leadership: Technically lead and mentor a multidisciplinary AI research team, fostering collaboration, good team dynamics and excellence.  
• Project Coordination: Oversee a wide set of research projects together with the project managers.  
• Reporting & Stakeholder Engagement: Provide regular updates on research progress, risks, and opportunities. 

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

• Master’s in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, a related field or equivalent experience (PhD is a plus). 
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in leading and managing a (research) team. 
• Demonstrated experience in AI algorithms research or development (design, implementation, validation). 
• Experience in managing collaborative projects, including setting research goals. 
• Proven experience working in a research-driven or academic setting, preferably with experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals or conferences is a strong advantage. 
• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of (hybrid) AI, machine learning, and advanced algorithms. Expertise in physics-informed AI and/or digital twins is a plus. Familiarity with deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), statistical methods, and/or optimization techniques. 
• Domain Expertise: Experience with semiconductor design and/or manufacturing processes is a plus. 
• Leadership: Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to mentor and inspire a team of researchers. Experience in developing talent and fostering an innovative, collaborative environment. 
• Strategic Vision: Ability to align technical projects with broader organizational strategies, ensuring that the team's research aligns with imec’s long-term objectives. 
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical ideas clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. 
• Adaptability: Flexibility and willingness to work in a fast-evolving research landscape. Ability to quickly learn. 
• Your English is fluent, both speaking and writing. Dutch is considered a plus. 
• Proven track record of securing and managing research grants or partnerships is a plus. 
• Knowledge of project management tools and methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum) is beneficial. 

IMEC and its affiliates will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. IMEC will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (hereafter “Agency”) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge. IMEC will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have a prior written agreement with IMEC, validated by its HR department, in place regarding a specific job opening and allowing to submit resumes.