Research Scientist, Electronic Design Automation - New College Grad 2026

NVIDIA Corporation; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 168,000 - 265,000; Full time

Job summary

NVIDIA Research is seeking a world-class new college grad PhD researcher to drive groundbreaking work at the intersection of AI, GPU computing, and Electronic Design Automation (EDA) in Santa Clara, CA. The role focuses on advancing EDA algorithms, VLSI design methods, and GPU-accelerated optimization.

You will publish your original research, present at conferences, and collaborate with circuit, VLSI, and architecture teams to translate research into real-world product impact.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Electrical/Computer Engineering, or related field.
• Proficiency in Python, PyTorch, C++, or CUDA (two or more).
• Publications in top EDA and AI/ML venues.
• Experience applying ML to EDA or chip design problems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Define and conduct original research across EDA, VLSI design, and AI.
• Innovate in EDA software and algorithms with GPU-accelerated methods.
• Apply deep learning to improve ASIC/VLSI design tool flows.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with circuit design, VLSI, and architecture teams.
• Publish and present research at conferences and events.
• Collaborate with external researchers and internal product teams.

Skills

Python

PyTorch

C++

CUDA

Education

PhD in Computer Science / Electrical/Computer Engineering

Job description

NVIDIA Research is searching for a world-class new college grad PhD researcher to drive groundbreaking research at the intersection of AI, GPU computing, and Electronic Design Automation (EDA).

Deep learning and GPU acceleration are transforming the future of chip design, and this role offers the opportunity to shape that future. Widely considered to be one of the technology world’s most desirable employers, NVIDIA has some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world inventing the future for us. Are you a creative and collaborative researcher interested in seeking new challenges? If so, we want to hear from you!

What you’ll be doing:

• Define and conduct original research across EDA algorithms, VLSI design methodology, and advanced AI techniques.
• Innovate in EDA software and algorithms, with applications spanning supervised, unsupervised, reinforcement learning, agentic AI systems, as well as GPU-accelerated optimization methods.
• Apply deep learning and GPU computing to improve ASIC and VLSI design tool flows.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with circuit design, VLSI, and architecture teams, ensuring research translates into real-world product impact.
• Publish and present your original research, speak at conferences and events.
• Collaborate with external researchers and a diverse set of internal product teams.

What we need to see:

• PhD in Computer Science, Electrical/Computer Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Strong Programming & Systems Skills: Proficiency in at least two of Python, PyTorch, C++, or CUDA
• Publications in top EDA and AI/ML venues
• Domain & Technical Expertise: Expertise in EDA (e.g., synthesis, physical design, design verification, timing) algorithms combined with publications and project experience applying machine learning/deep learning (supervised, unsupervised, RL, agentic AI) to impactful problems.
• Excellent self-motivation, a high degree of creativity, and a passion for research, collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively within a research team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proven experience communicating technical work (e.g., academic presentations, poster sessions); ability to synthesize and explain complex technical concepts.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 168,000 USD - 264,500 USD. You will also be eligible for equity and benefits. Applications for this job will be accepted at least until June 7, 2026. This posting is for an existing vacancy.

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes. NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law. NVIDIA pioneered accelerated computing. Today, our AI infrastructure powers global intelligence, transforming every industry.

Learn more about NVIDIA.