Research Scientist, AI Accelerator Design and VLSI - New College Grad 2026

About the role

NVIDIA Research is seeking a PhD researcher with a strong background in AI HW/SW Co-Design, AI Hardware Accelerator Architecture, IC Design Methodology, and VLSI Design. The ideal candidate will have expertise in machine learning fundamentals, quantization and numerical methods for machine learning model optimization, digital VLSI circuits for computer arithmetic, high-productivity VLSI design and verification methodologies including applications of generative AI to hardware design, AI hardware micro-architecture, and VLSI methodology and implementation.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to novel research advancing the state-of-the-art in AI accelerator design.
• Research creative and innovative ASIC and VLSI design techniques and/or novel digital VLSI circuits.
• Apply machine learning, generative AI, and innovative tools and methodologies to automated ASIC and VLSI design tool flows.
• Collaborate on the development of research prototype testchips.
• Collaborate with AI researchers and hardware team members in research and product teams.
• Publish and present your original research, speak at conferences and events.

Requirements

• PhD in Computer Science, Electrical/Computer Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• VLSI Implementation Skills: Experience in hardware design with proficiency with modern EDA tool flows.
• Programming & Systems Skills: Proficiency in at least two of Python, PyTorch, C++, SystemVerilog, or CUDA.
• Publications in top circuit, architecture, and/or AI/ML venues.
• Domain & Technical Expertise: PhD research experience in either VLSI (e.g., digital VLSI circuits and chip design methodologies), computer architecture, and/or numerical algorithms for AI model HW/SW co-design.
• 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.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Electrical/Computer Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Skills

• Experience in hardware design with proficiency with modern EDA tool flows.
• Proficiency in at least two of Python, PyTorch, C++, SystemVerilog, or CUDA.
• PhD research experience in either VLSI (e.g., digital VLSI circuits and chip design methodologies), computer architecture, and/or numerical algorithms for AI model HW/SW co-design.
• 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.

Benefits

• NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world’s most desirable employers.
• We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working for us.
• If you're creative, autonomous and love a challenge, we want to hear from you!

Pay

• 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.

Schedule

• You will be eligible for equity and benefits.

Contact Information

• Applications for this job will be accepted at least until February 9, 2026.
• This posting is for an existing vacancy.

About NVIDIA

• NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
• We highly value diversity in our current and future employees.