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- Tasks: Support cutting-edge microelectronics research and tackle real-world engineering challenges.
- Company: Join the Science and Technology Facilities Council at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.
- Benefits: Enjoy free parking, a cycle-to-work scheme, and learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art chip design tools and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Must be studying Electronic Engineering or related field with strong A-levels in Maths.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with excellent career growth and development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 25842 - 25842 £ per year.
Organisation: Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
Salary: £25,842 per annum
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours
Contract: Fixed-Term, 12 months
Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL), Harwell Campus, Didcot
Closing Date: Sunday, 1 March 2026
Interview Date: March 2026 / April 2026
Start Date: September 2026
About the Opportunity
Are you studying for a degree in Electronic Engineering or a related discipline? Do you want your technical skills stretched and enhanced by working with state-of-the-art chip design tools? Join STFC at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and become part of a specialist team of design methodology engineers, supporting world‑leading microelectronics research across Europe. This industrial placement offers hands‑on experience in a highly technical environment where your work will contribute to cutting‑edge research with real‑world impact.
In this challenging and rewarding role, you’ll support projects across Europe, working on a wide range of microelectronics challenges, including:
- Large‑scale digital integrated circuits at advanced transistor geometries
Whether your interests lie in analogue, digital, or device‑level engineering, you’ll gain valuable hands‑on experience, demonstrate your initiative, and apply your skills to complex, real‑world engineering problems.
What We’re Looking For
- Currently enrolled on an undergraduate degree and returning after placement
- Required/requested to take an industrial placement year
- Right to live and work in the UK for the duration of the placement
- Able to start in Summer 2026
- Minimum of three A‑levels at grade C or above, including Mathematics (or equivalent qualifications)
- Excellent understanding of fundamental principles of electronic circuits
- Genuine interest in microelectronics, silicon chips, and electronic design tools
- Enjoy solving challenging electronic engineering problems and have a genuine interest in discovering more about silicon chips and microelectronics design tools
- Desire to develop your own technical knowledge in microelectronics design and support the learning of others
- Conscientious, reliable and hardworking, with strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Have an excellent understanding of fundamental principles of basic electronic circuits (S&I)
Why Join Us?
- Free parking and cycle-to-work scheme
- Learning and development opportunities
How to Apply
Submit your CV and cover letter, addressing how you meet the essential criteria. For full details of the role please visit our careers site.
Please note: We may close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications.
We ask some of the biggest questions in the universe, to answer some of the biggest challenges in the world. Together, our scientists, technologists, engineers and business support team explore the unknown across every field you could think of. And they turn what they find into work that changes the world around us. What could you achieve with the world-leading facilities and experts of one of Europe’s largest research organisations by your side? Join us and discover what’s possible!
Microelectronics Design Methodology Engineers Industrial Placement employer: STFC
Contact Detail:
STFC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Microelectronics Design Methodology Engineers Industrial Placement
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past employees at STFC on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the placement. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Make sure you can discuss microelectronics concepts confidently. We recommend practising common interview questions related to electronic design tools and circuit principles.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During interviews, share specific examples of projects or coursework that sparked your interest in microelectronics. This will help us see your genuine enthusiasm for the field and how you could fit into our team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at STFC and ready to take on this exciting opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Microelectronics Design Methodology Engineers Industrial Placement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Microelectronics Design Methodology Engineer. Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and skills that align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits into our world of microelectronics!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about microelectronics and how your experiences make you a great fit for our team. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm for the field come through.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, don’t forget to mention specific examples where you've tackled challenging engineering problems. We love seeing how you approach complex issues, so share those stories with us!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our careers site. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there!
How to prepare for a job interview at STFC
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of electronic circuits and microelectronics. Familiarise yourself with the latest chip design tools and methodologies. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your genuine interest and understanding.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for microelectronics and the projects at STFC. Share any relevant experiences or projects you've worked on that demonstrate your commitment to the field. This will help you stand out as a candidate who is not just qualified but also genuinely excited about the role.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. This could be about the specific projects you'll be working on or the team dynamics. It shows that you're engaged and interested in how you can contribute to their work.
✨Practice Problem-Solving
Since the role involves tackling complex engineering problems, practice articulating your thought process when solving technical challenges. You might be asked to solve a problem during the interview, so being able to clearly explain your approach will demonstrate your analytical skills.
