Hello! I am Ruben, 29 years old. My professional journey so far has been a mix of curiosity, hard work, and a drive to create. After finishing my pre-university education, I took a short detour via university and eventually opted for Applied Science with a focus on Electrical Engineering. During my graduation internship, I was able to really apply what I had learned in the classroom to real-world challenges.
Semiconductor and photonic chips
During my studies and gap year I always worked for a large chip manufacturer. So, when I was looking for companies for my graduation internship, it was quite clear that I would end up in the semiconductor world. I chose for an assignment at CITC (Chip Integration Technology Center), a joint innovation center specialized in the packaging of semiconductor and photonic chips. After graduating, I was offered a job as junior technician there, which I happily accepted, as it gave me the opportunity to further explore a world where precision and innovation come together.
Practical experience
Right now, I am working as a researcher on several projects related to heterogeneous integration and advanced chip packaging technologies. In addition to my research activities, I have been given a role in our university program which allows bachelor students and industry professionals to delve into the chips and chip packaging.
The program combines the best of two worlds: we offer practical experience in our state-of-the-art lab and cutting-edge theory from expert professors. Every week, a guest lecturer comes by to share his/her knowledge on topics such as photonics, reliability testing, and wire bonding. I am responsible for the practical part of the program where we offer the participants the opportunity to work on assignments in our lab. I supervise the students and make sure they can safely work with the equipment. And at the end of the program, I am in the assessment committee.
Endless opportunities
There are two things that really excite me about working in this field. Firstly, it’s the endless opportunities within technology. I’ve always been fascinated by how technology brings together so many aspects of science. It’s incredible to see how – by combining different disciplines- we can create groundbreaking innovations. Take smart watches for example: they are a perfect fusion of technology, biology, and physics, in a small, wearable device, allowing us to interact with our bodies in ways we never thought possible. The overlap of these fields is where the ‘magic’ happens, and that’s exactly what makes my work so exciting.
Shared mindset
And secondly, I have learned to operate a wide range of equipment, gaining expertise in a variety of technologies, which fits perfectly with the combination of self-reliance and curiosity that drives me. One of the things I enjoy most about working at CITC is the diverse and international environment. Our small team of 22 people consists of no less than 7 different nationalities. The students I supervise also span many cultures. I am constantly exposed to fresh perspectives and new ideas, making every day an opportunity to learn and grow. What unites us is something much deeper: an open mind. A mindset that’s all about pushing scientific boundaries and thinking beyond the conventional.
