Working Student: Firmware Development for an RF sensing system at microwave frequencies

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 RF Design group is focused on integrated circuits and systems in the mmWave and sub-THz range and has expertise in the design of functional interposers as well as passive structures and components for the heterointegration of chiplets. Our goal is to research and develop new solutions in the field of RF sensing and its 2.5/3D integration for radio frequency applications.
In this project, the student will be responsible for developing the firmware to control and process data from an RF sensing system on PCB working at microwave frequencies, by using the STM32 Nucleo board. The main tasks include firmware development, implementation, and testing.

What you will do

• Develop firmware to control the desired functioning of the RF integrated circuits (ICs) of the RF sensing system on PCB using SPI protocol.
• Implement algorithms for signal processing and data analysis of the readouts from the sensor.
• Integrate the developed firmware with the hardware components and the existing MUT sensor.
• Perform testing and debugging of the firmware to ensure reliable operation.
• Document the firmware design and user instructions.

What you bring to the table

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or similar
• Very good English communication skills, both oral and written
• Good communication skills. Well organized. Independent. Curious. Honest. Respectful.
• Background in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or similar, with a focus on embedded systems
• Experience in firmware development using C/C++
• Experience with microcontrollers and signal processing
• Familiarity with RF electronics concepts like impedance matching, microstrip/coplanar waveguide, mixing, and filtering

What you can expect

You work on innovative topics and receive excellent support for your individual development and qualifications. We offer you a challenging and varied research role with responsibility and creative freedom. With us you can expect an open-minded and dynamic team that will place its trust in you from the outset and allow you to work independently. We offer opportunities for hybrid working and many other options for achieving a work-life balance. For the best possible support for your arrival at the institute, we provide a structured onboarding program.

The weekly working time is up to 20 hours. 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!

Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Microsystems and Solid State Technologies EMFT

Requisition Number: 77171                Application Deadline: 12/10/2024