High-speed Serdes Simulation & Optimization Intern — I/o Next Generation R&d

Intel Intel · Semiconductors · Guadalajara, Mexico

This internship focuses on developing automated simulation workflows for high-speed I/O technologies like PCIe, evaluating channel and circuit topologies, extracting channel models, and analyzing results to identify optimization opportunities. The role involves collaborating with engineers, executing parametric studies, and contributing to documentation for future server platforms and data center leadership.

What you'd actually do

  1. Develop and maintain an automated end-to-end workflow to simulate PCIe channel/circuit topologies using simulation tools, including repeatable run scripts and standardized inputs/outputs.
  2. Extract realistic channel models (e.g., S-parameters / behavioral representations as applicable) from full topology descriptions and ensure model quality/consistency for simulation use.
  3. Set up and run transmitter/receiver equalization sweeps (TX FIR/FFE, CTLE/DFE, adaptation presets, etc. as supported) and capture sensitivity to channel conditions and topology variations.
  4. Analyze simulation outputs to identify channel performance bottlenecks (e.g., loss, reflections, crosstalk, discontinuities) and propose mitigation actions and topology/parameter improvements.
  5. Automate post-processing, data reduction, and reporting (plots, tables, margin/compliance metrics) to enable fast comparison across topologies and equalization settings.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor, Master's degree or PhD's Degreen in Electronics or Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field (with at least 1 year remaining before graduation).
  • 3+ months of experience in Electrical Engineering (both Digital and Analog Electronics).
  • Advance English level.
  • Unrestricted, permanent right to work in Mexico

Nice to have

  • Knowledge of high-speed serial link / PCIe channel fundamentals (insertion/return loss, impedance discontinuities, crosstalk, reflections, mode conversion) and how they impact eye/margin.
  • Experience (academic or project) with channel/circuit simulation for high-speed links using ICAT and/or Seasim (or similar SI simulation environments).
  • Familiarity with TX/RX equalization (TX FIR/FFE, CTLE/DFE) and ability to set up sweeps, interpret results, and identify bottlenecks/trade-offs.
  • Comfort working with S-parameters and frequency-domain metrics; familiarity with VNA/TDR concepts, de-embedding, and basic correlation of simulation vs. measurement is a plus.
  • Understanding PCIe channel building blocks (packages, PCBs, vias, connectors, transmission lines, stack-ups/materials) and practical considerations that drive loss and discontinuities.
  • Programming/scripting skills for automation and data analysis (Python preferred; MATLAB also acceptable), including handling large parametric sweep datasets and generating summary plots/tables.