Summer/Fall 2026 - Circuit Design Research Intern(7339)

Are you a visionary PhD student eager to shape the future of semiconductor technology?  

Join TSMC, the world leader in semiconductor manufacturing, as a Circuit Design Research Intern within our cutting-edge Corporate Research Design Solution team in San Jose. This isn't just an internship; it's an opportunity to dive deep into industrial R&D, work alongside seasoned professionals, and contribute to the foundational technologies that will power the next generation of electronic devices.  

Over 6 months, you'll gain invaluable hands-on experience, expand your skill set, and directly influence the exploration of novel solutions for advanced chip design. We're looking for bright, enthusiastic minds ready to tackle complex scientific and engineering challenges and transform innovative concepts into tangible results.  

To foster close collaboration and accelerate hands-on development, we operate a hybrid work model where interns are expected to be in our San Jose office four days per week.

What You'll Do & The Impact You'll Make:

• Pioneer Circuit Innovation: Conduct groundbreaking research and development, evaluating the Power, Performance, and Area (PPA) of novel circuit-level designs.
• Bring Ideas to Life: Play a crucial role in the proof-of-concept chip tapeout process, seeing your research transition from theory to a physical prototype.
• Collaborate & Grow: Work closely with a team of R&D experts, receiving mentorship and guidance as you navigate complex research problems.
• Share Your Discoveries: Actively participate in research group meetings, presenting your findings and engaging in stimulating discussions that push the boundaries of technology.
• Shape the Future: Contribute to the intellectual property landscape by converting your innovative work into patents and publications, leaving your mark on the industry.

What We're Looking For:

• An Aspiring Innovator: You are a current PhD student specializing in Electrical Engineering or a related field, passionate about pushing the limits of chip design.
• Availability: Ready to commit to a 6-month internship, typically spanning from summer to fall, to fully immerse yourself in our research projects.
• Circuit Design Acumen: Possess a solid foundation in circuit design principles and hands-on experience with the chip tapeout flow.
• Deep Domain Expertise: In-depth knowledge in at least one of the following critical areas:
• Memory Technology: SRAM, RRAM, MRAM, PCRAM.
• Memory Macro Design: Sense amplifiers, write circuitry, LDO, charge pumps, ADC/DAC.
• Accelerator Architectures: In-memory compute, near-memory computing, systolic arrays.
• Problem-Solving Prowess: Demonstrated strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills, with a knack for dissecting complex challenges.
• Proactive & Curious: Self-driven, highly proactive, and genuinely enthusiastic about exploring and mastering new technologies.
• Collaborative Spirit: A strong team player with excellent written and spoken communication skills, eager to share insights and learn from others.

Company Description

As a trusted technology and capacity provider, TSMC is driven by the desire to be:

• The world’s leading dedicated semiconductor foundry
• The technology leader with a strong reputation for manufacturing excellence
• Advancing semiconductor manufacturing innovations to enable the future of technology

TSMC pioneered the pure-play foundry business model when it was founded in 1987 and has been the world’s leading dedicated semiconductor foundry ever since. The Company supports a thriving ecosystem of global customers and partners with the industry’s leading process technologies and a portfolio of design enablement solutions to unleash innovation for the global semiconductor industry. With global operations spanning Asia, Europe, and North America, TSMC serves as a committed corporate citizen around the world.

In North America, TSMC has a strong sales and service organization that works with customers by helping them achieve silicon success with cutting-edge technologies and manufacturing excellence. The Company has continued to accelerate its R&D investment and staffing in recent years and is expanding its manufacturing footprint to support customer innovation with 3D IC technologies and optimal manufacturing capacity.

For positions requiring access to technical data subject to export control regulations, including Export Administration Regulations, TSMC Technology Inc. may have to obtain export licensing approval from the U.S. Government for certain individuals.  All employment is contingent upon TSMC Technology Inc. obtaining any export license or other approval that may be required by the U.S. Government.

Diversity statement

TSMC Technology, Inc. is committed to employing a diverse workforce and provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

TSMC is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity. If you require reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please feel free to notify us at G_Accommodations@tsmc.com. TSMC confirms to all applicants its commitment to meet TSMC’s obligations under applicable employment law. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis. 

Pay Transparency statement
At TSMC, your base pay is only part of your overall total compensation package. At the time of this posting, this role typically pays an hourly rate between $42 and $48. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hires. Actual pay may be more or less than the posted range. Factors that influence pay include the individual's skills, qualifications, education, experience and the position level and location.