At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the future of CPU architecture through innovative design and performance modelling.
- Company: Global tech leader in next-gen processor architectures based in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with mentorship opportunities and a focus on innovation.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge team and make a real impact on technology that powers the future.
- Qualifications: MSc or PhD in relevant fields with strong CPU microarchitecture experience.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
About the Company
Our client is a global technology leader developing next-generation processor architectures for flagship mobile, AI, and compute platforms. Their CPU research and development team in Cambridge is expanding and is looking for an experienced Principal CPU Microarchitect to help shape future out-of-order CPU cores through advanced microarchitecture innovation, workload analysis, and performance modelling.
This is a highly technical architecture-focused role working closely with performance architects, compiler teams, runtime specialists, and downstream implementation teams on next-generation CPU technologies.
The Role
You will play a key role in defining and evaluating CPU microarchitectural features across modern out-of-order processor pipelines. The position focuses heavily on cycle-accurate modelling, workload-driven optimisation, and architectural innovation targeting demanding mobile and compute workloads.
You will contribute across areas such as:
- Front-end architecture
- Branch prediction
- Out-of-order execution
- Memory subsystem optimisation
- Cache hierarchy and coherence
- Prefetching technologies
- ISA and semantic acceleration concepts
This is not an RTL or verification role. The focus is on architecture definition, performance modelling, and workload analysis.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and evaluate CPU microarchitectural features across multiple pipeline stages
- Develop and maintain cycle-accurate performance models using gem5 or similar simulators
- Analyse workloads using performance counters, traces, and profiling tools to identify bottlenecks and optimisation opportunities
- Evaluate architecture trade-offs for performance, power efficiency, and scalability
- Collaborate with compiler and runtime teams on ISA extensions and optimisation features
- Partner with implementation and design teams throughout feature development
- Produce detailed architecture specifications and technical documentation
- Mentor engineers and contribute to long-term CPU architecture strategy
Requirements
- MSc or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
- Strong hands-on experience in CPU microarchitecture
- Deep understanding of out-of-order processor design
- Expertise in one or more of the following:
- Branch prediction
- Prefetching
- Cache hierarchy
- Memory subsystem
- Execution engine architecture
- Cache coherence
- Experience with cycle-accurate simulators such as gem5
- Strong workload analysis and performance profiling experience
- Solid programming skills in C++ and Python
- Familiarity with ARM, x86, or RISC-V architectures
Preferred Experience
- PhD in Computer Architecture or related field
- Publications in top architecture conferences such as ISCA, MICRO, HPCA, or ASPLOS
- Experience with dynamic language runtimes or compiler optimisation
- Exposure to AI/ML inference workloads on CPU platforms
- Experience contributing to production silicon
- Interest in AI-assisted architecture exploration and optimisation
Principal CPU Microarchitect in Cambridge employer: LinkedIn
As a global technology leader based in Cambridge, our client offers an exceptional work environment for the Principal CPU Microarchitect role, fostering innovation and collaboration among top-tier professionals. Employees benefit from a culture that prioritises technical excellence, continuous learning, and mentorship, alongside opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects in mobile and AI technologies. The vibrant tech community in Cambridge further enhances the experience, providing access to a wealth of resources and networking opportunities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal CPU Microarchitect in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry on LinkedIn or at tech meetups. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Principal CPU Microarchitect role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got projects or research that highlight your expertise in CPU microarchitecture, make sure to share them. We recommend creating a portfolio or GitHub repo to showcase your work and impress potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on cycle-accurate modelling and workload analysis, as these are key areas for this role. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to get comfortable with technical questions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team and help shape the future of CPU architecture.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal CPU Microarchitect in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal CPU Microarchitect role. Highlight your experience with CPU microarchitecture, cycle-accurate modelling, and any relevant projects that showcase your skills in performance analysis and architectural innovation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about CPU architecture and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention specific technologies or methodologies you’ve worked with that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We want to see your technical prowess! Include details about your programming skills in C++ and Python, as well as your experience with simulators like gem5. If you've published papers or contributed to projects, make sure to mention those too!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at LinkedIn
✨Know Your Microarchitecture Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid grasp of CPU microarchitecture concepts, especially out-of-order execution and cache hierarchy. Brush up on your knowledge of branch prediction and memory subsystems, as these are likely to come up in technical discussions.
✨Showcase Your Modelling Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with cycle-accurate performance models, particularly using tools like gem5. Bring examples of how you've used performance counters and profiling tools to analyse workloads and identify optimisation opportunities.
✨Collaborate and Communicate
This role involves working closely with various teams, so highlight your collaboration skills. Share examples of how you've partnered with compiler or runtime teams in the past, and be ready to discuss how you approach architectural trade-offs.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions related to CPU architecture and performance modelling. Practice explaining complex concepts clearly and concisely, as this will demonstrate your expertise and ability to mentor others in the field.
