Master Thesis: Design of a Low Noise Amplifier for Neuromorphic Sensor Frontends

The Fraunhofer Research Institution for Microsystems and Solid State Technologies EMFT, with currently almost 180 employees at its sites in Munich (headquarters), Oberpfaffenhofen and Regensburg, conducts cutting-edge applied research on sensors and actuators for people and the environment. The competences are based on impressive long-term experience and extensive know-how in the fields of microelectronics and microsystem technology. These nano- and microtechnologies are the basis for the other competence areas at Fraunhofer EMFT: sensor solutions, safe and secure electronics, and micropumps. The interdisciplinary interaction of these competencies enables the development of truly novel solutions, putting Fraunhofer EMFT in an ideal position for tackling the current challenges of our society.

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) motivated moving AI closer to the edge or even in sensors to make daily human life more convenient. Conventional time-discrete signal processing flow, where the signal is sensed and quantized by a frontend and processed in a digital processing unit (DPU), is less practical due to significant power consumption required for the processing of the massive amount of raw signal data. In contrast to this, the event-based signal processing flow shows great potential to solve this problem because it only consumes power if a particular event occurs. It can be realized by combining an event-based analog frontend (AFE) and a spiking neural network (SNN) core.

In order to use the AFE for audio applications, a Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) is necessary. Its purpose is to act as a direct interface to a MEMS microphone and to amplify the signals provided by the microphone while introducing as little noise as possible. For increased dynamic range, the LNA shall be implemented with programmable gain settings. The main challenge is to implement the design within strict constraints on power consumption in the sub-µW range, since low-power edge AI is the intended use case.

Our group aims to develop analog/mixed-signal integrated systems for applications such as sensors, high-performance data converters, neuromorphic computing systems, and RF components. As a part of our group, you will perform a literature study on LNAs and MEMS microphones, design your own LNA with programmable gain settings and power consumption in the nW-range, and verify your design considering process variation and chip yield. Under certain conditions, publication of the results is possible and encouraged.

What you will do

• Study state of the art of LNAs and MEMS microphones
• Select a suitable topology for LNA based on literature study
• Design and implement your LNA including programmable gain settings
• Documentation and presentation of the results

What you bring to the table

• Course of study in the field of Electrical Engineering or similar 
• Good knowledge of integrated analog circuits
• First experience with Cadence Virtuoso ADE is required
• Ability to work independently
• Good analytical and structured working style
• Ability to coordinate with an international team
• Good German or English language skills

What you can expect

We offer you a challenging task with responsibilities, room for creativity and many opportunities to gain new experience. You can expect an international, open-minded, and dynamic team, where you will be trusted from day one and encouraged to work independently. Your contributions will play a vital role in advancing our research in the field of neuromorphic computing.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Remuneration according to the general works agreement for employing assistant staff.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future. 

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

Mr. Damian Panter
E-Mail: damian.panter@emft.fraunhofer.de
Telephone: +49 89 54759-233
 

Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Microsystems and Solid State Technologies EMFT

www.emft.fraunhofer.de 

Requisition Number: 78009                Application Deadline: 02/28/2025