Do you want a theoretical understanding of analog/mixed-signal engineering as well as practical and applied knowledge? Then, the new MS programme in analog/mixed signal VLSI, which is a result of a partnership between Texas Instruments India and IIT Madras, is the course for you. But hurry up and grab one of those fast-filling seats because the deadline is just a few days away, on March 31, 2018. We talk to Upasana Pindwal, Staffing Manager, Texas Instruments India about why one should take up this programme, which, in her words, offers, “the best of both worlds – sound theoretical knowledge coupled with an intensive internship at TI, while working on real-world challenges and being mentored by industry experts.”
Excerpts from a conversation:
In what ways have the job opportunities in the field increased?
In 2017, the worldwide semiconductor industry was expected to grow by 20.6 percent and the upward swing is expected to continue in 2018 as well. The electronics component in the automotive and industrial sector is growing exponentially, we are seeing more components on single integrated circuits, there are more expectations from electronics in the consumer appliances and personal communications space – all this and more is fueling the growth. Overall, the forecast for semiconductors looks positive and there are good job opportunities in this field.
For students of Electronics, the goal is often to get into a chipset major. What in this course will set them apart from the considered norm of a standard ECE degree?
This course will give them hands-on experience, an opportunity to work on real-time challenges in the industry and get exposure to what the industry requires of them. After all, companies today are looking for candidates who have a strong foundation in theory along with practical and applied knowledge.
Is there an innovation component for research or is it about learning the intricacies of the chipset design industry?
When you are working on a challenging problem, the solution needs to be innovative; innovation is part of our DNA. We solve customer problems by building chips that are at the cutting-edge of innovation. Students who enter this programme will be introduced to the multiple facets of chip design, development and testing during their internship.
What are some other cutting-edge advancements at TI that students will be privy to if they enrol in this course?
The internship exposes students to real-world problems, where they will get to work on some of the toughest challenges in analog engineering spanning industrial, automotive, medical and communications. When students are part of these project teams, they are introduced to the latest technical advancements in the field and this is invaluable learning for an intern. They also get to access TI’s state-of-the-art labs and equipment, and will be mentored by TI industry veterans. Many of our engineers are multiple patent holders. In addition, they get the opportunity to experience TI culture – where they will meet some of the brightest engineering minds in the country, who will go out of their way to guide and mentor them.
To know more about the course, click on ee.iitm.ac.in/vlsi/tiiprogram/
