CPU (RISC-V) Researcher - Cambridge

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Staff Research Scientist with strong ISA extensions experience. This is a high-level research and development role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyse dynamic language overhead: Profile V8 and ArkTS interpreter/JIT to identify operations that consume disproportionate cycles (type checks, inline cache misses, garbage collection barriers, dynamic dispatch, deoptimisation)
• Design ISA extensions: Propose new instructions or architectural features that accelerate common dynamic language patterns while maintaining backward compatibility and security boundaries
• Prototype in software: Modify V8, ArkTS interpreter, or JIT compiler to use new instructions, measuring speedup on representative workloads (OpenHarmony apps, JavaScript benchmarks, browser workloads)
• Model in architectural simulators: Implement proposed extensions in GEM5
• Collaborate on RTL implementation: Work with digital design teams to refine instruction encoding, pipeline integration, and verification requirements
• Publish and patent: Document novel contributions through internal technical reports, conference papers, and patent applications

Required:

• Deep understanding of CPU microarchitecture: pipelines, out-of-order execution, branch prediction, memory hierarchy, ISA design principles
• Experience with architectural simulation (GEM5, Sniper, ZSim, or proprietary tools)
• Familiarity with interpreter or JIT compiler internals—any of: V8, SpiderMonkey, JavaScriptCore, HotSpot, ART, LuaJIT, PyPy, or similar
• Strong C/C++ and systems programming skills
• Comfortable working in Linux environments with Git, Make, scripting
• Equivalent industry experience (5+ years in CPU architecture, compilers, or language runtimes) welcomed
• PhD or MSc in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering preferred

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Cambridge

Type of Contract

Full Time Jobs

Published at

26-04-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English