Summary Europe is investing heavily in semiconductor innovation, and the EU Chips Design Platform is at the center of that transformation. We are seeking a Startup and Ecosystem Manager to become a trusted partner for startups, SMEs, research organizations, and fabless innovators across Europe. In this role, you will guide them through the platform, connect them with the right expertise, and help accelerate their path from concept to market-ready chips.
Startup and Ecosystem Manager – EU Chips Design Platform, Belgium, Netherlands and Spain
Job Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | Startup and Ecosystem Manager |
| Research Area / Dept. | Business Development (Semiconductor Innovation) |
| Location | Leuven (Belgium), Eindhoven (The Netherlands), or Málaga (Spain) |
| Last Date to Apply | Open Now |
Export to Sheets
Research Area: Semiconductor Ecosystem & Venture Development
Job Description
As a Startup and Ecosystem Manager, you will combine ecosystem building, stakeholder management, and startup support. Your key responsibilities will include:
- Guiding and onboarding users of the EU Chips Design Platform throughout their innovation journey.
- Acting as the primary contact for startups, SMEs, and research teams using the platform.
- Managing imec’s contribution to the Venture Development Program, which includes mentoring, incubation, and acceleration activities.
- Supporting participants in applying for Financial Support to Third Parties (FSTP) funding opportunities.
- Promoting the platform across the European semiconductor ecosystem.
- Building strong relationships with startups, investors, competence centers, and industry stakeholders throughout Europe.
- Identifying opportunities to improve the user experience and continuously strengthening the platform’s services.
- Helping to shape a thriving European chip design community.
Eligibility & Qualifications
We are looking for someone who combines technical understanding with a passion for helping innovators succeed.
Required:
- A PhD, Master’s degree, or equivalent experience in microelectronics, electrical engineering, physics, or a related field.
- Knowledge of ASIC design and semiconductor development.
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
- A customer-focused mindset and an entrepreneurial attitude.
- Excellent English communication skills.
- Willingness to travel frequently (around 10% of your time), mostly within Europe.
Preferred Assets:
- Experience working with startups or innovation ecosystems.
- Familiarity with venture development, incubation, or accelerator programs.
- An existing network within the European semiconductor ecosystem.
- Experience with multiple chip design flows or EDA tools.
(Note: Even if you do not meet every preferred requirement, candidates with strong potential and a willingness to learn are highly encouraged to apply.)
How to Apply
Open Now
To submit your application, please visit the official imec Job Opportunities page and click the Apply button.
IMEC aligns the work location (Leuven, Eindhoven, or Málaga) with what suits the candidate best and offers a market-appropriate salary with numerous fringe benefits.
