Mathematics - systems and control internship: wafer handler optimization

asml; Eindhoven; On-site; EUR 10,000 - 13,000; Full time

Job summary

ASML in Veldhoven is offering a master thesis internship in the Wafer Handler domain to develop an optimization approach for robot motion and improve wafer transport throughput in a simulated environment.

You will translate constraints into a mathematical optimization framework and design time-optimal motion setpoints while validating performance through MATLAB-based simulations, collaborating with engineers in an international setting.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in a master's program in a relevant field and able to commit to 4–6 months.
• Experience with MATLAB and scientific programming is required.
• Knowledge of optimization methods and mathematical modeling is essential.
• Ability to translate constraints into a formal optimization problem.
• Strong analytical and communication skills for presenting findings.

Responsibilities

• Analyze the existing robot motion problem and performance limitations
• Research optimization methods and relevant scientific literature
• Translate system constraints into a mathematical optimization framework
• Develop algorithms for generating time-optimal motion setpoint profiles
• Implement and test the solution using MATLAB and programming tools
• Validate the proposed approach in a simulation environment

Skills

Optimization methods

Mathematical modeling

Differential equations

Analytical thinking

Proactive communication

Education

Master's degree in mathematics, systems and control, applied mathematics, robotics, mechanical engineering, or mechatronics

Tools

MATLAB

Job description

Introduction

The Wafer Handler department in Veldhoven plays a key role in transporting wafers throughout ASML lithography systems. During this internship, you will contribute to improving wafer handling throughput by developing an optimization approach for robot motion. The assignment focuses on reducing robot move time while respecting physical and operational constraints. Your work will help explore new possibilities for faster and more efficient wafer transport in a simulated environment. If you enjoy mathematical modeling, optimization, and translating theory into practical solutions, this internship could be a great fit.

Your assignment

Within the Wafer Handler domain, robots transfer wafers between modules using three degrees of freedom. Current motion strategies are not fully time-optimal and can limit overall system throughput. During this internship, you will investigate optimization techniques from literature and develop an algorithm that generates time-optimal motion setpoints while satisfying system constraints. Success is achieved when the proposed method demonstrates measurable throughput improvements in simulation.

Your main responsibilities will be:

• Analyze the existing robot motion problem and performance limitations
• Research optimization methods and relevant scientific literature
• Translate system constraints into a mathematical optimization framework
• Develop algorithms for generating time-optimal motion setpoint profiles
• Implement and test the solution using MATLAB and programming tools
• Validate the proposed approach in a simulation environment
• Quantify and present the achieved performance improvements

This is a master's thesis internship for 4 to 6 months, minimum 5 days per week (3 days on-site). The start date of this internship is as soon as possible.

Your profile

To be suitable for the internship, you:

• Are pursuing a master's degree in mathematics, systems and control, Applied mathematics, robotics, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, or a related field
• Have experience with MATLAB and scientific programming
• Have knowledge of optimization methods, mathematical modeling, and differential equations
• Are analytical, structured, and comfortable solving complex technical problems
• Proactive and able to communicate findings clear with stakeholders

This mathematics | systems and control internship offers the opportunity to work on a challenging optimization problem with direct relevance to semiconductor manufacturing technology. You will gain experience combining mathematical theory, simulation, and engineering constraints while contributing to innovations that can improve system performance. As part of this internship, you will collaborate with experienced engineers in an international and inclusive environment where learning and development are encouraged.

Other requirements you need to meet:

• You are enrolled at an educational institute for the entire duration of the internship, and you are at least 18 years old at the start of the internship;
• If you are a non-EU citizen, studying in the Netherlands, your university is willing to sign the documents relevant for doing an internship (i.e., Nuffic agreement);
• You attach your cover letter with a clear motivation on why you are interested in this internship assignment in particular;
• You need to be located in the Netherlands to be perform your internship. In case you are currently living/studying outside of the Netherlands, your application shows the willingness to relocate.

Inclusion and diversity

ASML is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that inclusion and diversity is a driving force in the success of our company.

Do you want to know more about the internship allowance, visa support and applying for an internship at ASML? Read this page .