Overview
PhD Student in Sustainable Wireless Embedded Systems (F/M/D) at CSEM. This role is hosted in the Integrated & Wireless Systems Business Unit based in Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
Your mission
Join our innovative team at CSEM and contribute to the European FERNS Doctoral Network (Holistic integration of eco-Friendly design tools and materials, fabrication technologies for the responsible co-creation of future sustainable integrated electronic systems – Grant agreement 101226611).
You will design and prototype next-generation, eco-designed livestock ear-tags (“FarmTag”) that enable localisation, classification, and health monitoring of animals. Your research will combine modular electronics, hybrid-printing processes, and energy-aware embedded computing to develop smart, low-impact devices that respond to the needs of sustainable farming.
This PhD studentship is for 3 years, hosted at CSEM in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, with the doctoral degree awarded by University College Cork (UCC, Ireland) through the Tyndall National Institute. The successful candidate is expected to begin the programme before April 2026.
Before applying, please check the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network eligibility criteria here: Marie Curie Doctoral Researchers – FERNS project - Tyndall National Institute - Excellence in ICT Research
Position details
Available PhD position at CSEM. Doctoral Researcher 3 (DR3) will contribute to Work Package 3 (Hybrid Integration), led by CSEM. The focus is to develop sustainable smart ear-tags that integrate sensors, energy sources, communication modules, and embedded computing into a single low-footprint device for livestock localisation and health monitoring.
You will
* Design the system architecture and eco-design strategy to enable modularity, reuse, repair, and recycling.
* Select and combine sustainable components (e.g., biodegradable substrates, printed antennas, low-power ICs, super-capacitors).
* Exploit energy- and precision-aware IC architectures to support intermittent energy availability while ensuring reliable operation in the field.
* Prototype and validate ear-tag devices (FarmTag) through laboratory tests and collaborate with partners to prepare for field evaluation.
* Contribute to defining policies for data collection, storage, and execution control in resource-constrained devices.
* Support the environmental impact assessment of the developed technologies.
Your Responsibilities
* Conduct high-quality research on hybrid integration of electronics for sustainable livestock ear-tags.
* Develop fully functional prototypes that integrate sensing, localisation, energy harvesting, and wireless data transmission.
* Document the overall manufacturing process and participate in the definition of system-level policies for low-energy devices.
* Collaborate closely with FERNS partners, including secondments at Teagasc (Ireland, M12) and Tyndall National Institute (Ireland, M13-22).
* Disseminate research results through scientific publications, project reports, and conference presentations.
* Engage in professional training, outreach, and knowledge transfer activities within the FERNS network.
* Comply with CSEM’s quality management and health & safety standards.
Your profile
Know-how
* Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Materials science, electrical materials, or bio-sourced materials.
* Experience with additive manufacturing processes: screen-printing, ink-jetting, dispensing and 3D printing a plus.
* Expertise in the characterization of materials and assemblies (mechanical, electrical, etc.).
Interpersonal Skills
* Natural curiosity and ability to adapt to new situations.
* Autonomous and hands-on, motivated to play a key role in developing innovative solutions.
* Open-minded attitude and strong teamwork.
* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
We are CSEM
* We are a unique place between research and industry at the cutting edge of new technologies.
* We are an innovative, non-profit, and employee-driven company.
* We offer a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and multicultural environment.
* We are a solar team focused on enabling solutions to energy challenges for a sustainable world.
Working at CSEM
* Being part of a passionate community.
* Flexible working conditions, development opportunities, and a trust-based management style that supports work-life balance.
We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or gender identity.
We look forward to receiving your complete application file via our job page (CV, cover letter, certificates & diplomas). Preference will be given to professionals applying directly.
Seniority level
* Internship
Employment type
* Temporary
Job function
* Education and Training
* Industries: Research
We are committed to equal employment opportunity. Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at CSEM by 2x.
Location: Liebefeld, Berne, Switzerland
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