Thomas Ahrens
Senior Middle-end Engineer at Sipearl @SiPearl
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WORK HISTORY
Senior Middle-end Engineer at Sipearl @SiPearl
Grenoble, FR
In my current role, I contribute to the tape-out of Rhea1, Europe’s first Exascale-class processor, within an advanced-node TSMC program operating in full production mode. I own synthesis delivery and sign-off correctness across multiple CPU and SoC blocks, working closely with RTL, implementation, and verification teams to ensure predictable execution under tight schedule and quality constraints.Alongside hands-on technical work, I focus on flow reliability, reducing iteration cycles, and enabling effective collaboration across sites and external partners.• Delivered synthesis outputs through tape-out for multiple CPU and SoC blocks• Led a distributed synthesis team of five external engineers• Owned LEC from block to top level, strengthening sign-off confidence• Reduced iteration cycles by standardizing regression expectations• Developed and debugged timing constraints with RTL teams in France and Germany• Delivered internal training on synthesis, constraints, and LEC fundamentals• Executed post-synthesis functional ECOs to maintain RTL equivalence• Acted as sole on-site SiPearl representative during a three-month assignment at Alphawave Semi, serving as primary PnR and sign-off authority
EDUCATION
ENSERG - Ecole Nationale Supérieure d'Electronique et de Radioélectricité de Grenoble
Engineer's degree, Microelectronics
University of Duisburg-Essen
Engineer's degree, Microelectronic
ABOUT THOMAS AHRENS
Senior semiconductor design engineer with 25 years of experience delivering high-performance CPU and SoC programs from early ramp-up through tape-out, across both large industrial groups and a European startup environment.I specialize in synthesis, formal verification, and front-end CAD flows for timing-critical, advanced-node designs. My work has supported full production programs, including complex CPUs operating under tight schedule and sign-off constraints. I am regularly trusted with sign-off ownership, flow reliability, and reducing iteration cycles so teams can move forward with confidence.Beyond technical delivery, I bring strong collaboration and communication skills. I work closely with RTL, backend, DFT, and verification teams to align constraints, assumptions, and handoff quality. I have led distributed teams, coordinated cross-site execution, and acted as the primary technical interface with external partners on synthesis, PnR, and sign-off topics. I am particularly effective in environments where clarity, pragmatism, and shared ownership matter. I enjoy mentoring junior engineers, sharing methodology best practices, and helping teams reduce complexity so collective delivery stays on track.At this stage of my career, I am seeking roles where teamwork, knowledge sharing, and end-to-end project success are valued as much as hands-on technical expertise.French and German citizen. Open to relocation.
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