Are you passionate about shaping the future of computing? At IBM’s hardware development lab in Böblingen, we design and build some of the world’s most advanced computer systems. Our work powers mission-critical infrastructure for banks, airlines, governments, and global enterprises.

As part of our Hardware Logic Design team, you’ll collaborate with engineers across the USA, Israel, and India, using agile methodologies and modern development practices to drive innovation. You’ll be mentored by experienced professionals and contribute to real-world projects that impact millions of users.

We offer flexible internship formats — whether you're looking for a full-time deep dive or a part-time experience alongside your studies, we’ll tailor the role to your goals.

Internship Topics — Choose Your Topic

Topic 1: Power Detective – Uncovering Energy Bottlenecks in Server Chips

IBM zSeries systems are the backbone of enterprise transaction processing. At their core is the IBM Telum processor — a many-core chip designed for speed, reliability, and efficiency.

Your mission:

• Analyze switching activity in processor HW blocks
• Analyse workload to power correlation
• Develop simulation workloads to stress-test power behavior
• Collaborate with hardware teams to improve power analysis workflows

Ideal for students in: Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics
Skills: Hardware design, simulation, data analysis, scripting (Python)

Topic 2: Bug Hunting - Smart Tools for Processor Logic Fault Analysis

Explore state-of-the-art fault analysis in processor simulation environments and experiment with new tools and methods for a smarter debug of functional logic faults.

Your mission:

• Gain experience with a real processor simulation environment
• Explore existing smart debug tools & methods
• Develop methods to accelerate root cause identification, enabling easier and more effective examination of logic-level failures
• Experiment with fault injection scenarios to improve processor reliability
• Explore tools/methods based on ML/AI for Processor Simulation and debug

Ideal for students in: Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Engineering, Software Development, Computational Science

Skills: Python/C++, AI/ML, Simulation environments, Processor Architecture Basics

Topic 3: Augmenting the Compiler for IBM’s AI Accelerator (also a Master Thesis’ Opportunity)

Dive into compiler development for IBM’s enterprise-grade AI accelerator, used for high-performance inference on the IBM Z platform.

Your mission:

• Introduce higher abstraction levels for our AI compiler
• Compiler optimization for AI models

• Build a prototype demonstrator showcasing your work
• Collaborate across the full stack — from hardware to system integration

Ideal for students in: Computer Science, Software Engineering
Skills: Scala/Java/C++, OpenCL/OpenMP, compiler techniques, parallel programming

Topic 4: High-Level Abstraction for Scalable Hardware Design

Join IBM’s journey toward next-generation hardware development by exploring one or more of the following mission.

Your mission:

• Transform existing designs into a high-level methodology enabling abstraction, scalability, and parameterization
• Consolidate the transformed designs into a high-level library for intuitive reuse and scalability using Chisel

Ideal for students in: Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Required Skills: Proficiency in Scala, Java, or C++, Knowledge of Chisel, Verilog, VHDL

Why Intern at IBM?
* Work in a global team with labs in the USA, Israel, and India
* Be mentored by experienced engineers from day one
* Take on real responsibilities and contribute to impactful projects
* Grow your skills in a flexible, agile, and supportive environment
* Get hands-on experience with enterprise-grade technologies
* Build your network and explore career opportunities within IBM

Application Checklist

Please submit all documents in one single PDF file:

* Your preferred project topic(s)
* Cover letter including your availability (earliest start and latest end date)
* CV including your level of German
* Certificate of enrollment from your university
* Transcript of records and other relevant certificates/references
* For non-EU citizens studying in Germany: copy of passport, residence and work permit
* For non-EU citizens studying elsewhere: proof of identity including place of birth

Ready to Apply?

If you're self-driven, curious, and excited about hardware development, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape the future of chip design at IBM!

• Currently enrolled in a degree program in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related field
• Strong programming skills in C++, Python or similar
• Familiarity with development tools such as Git
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Collaborative mindset with a passion for innovation

• German language skills at B2 level or higher are an advantage.
• Familiarity with hardware development (e.g., VHDL, Verilog, Chisel)
• Understanding of AI, machine learning, or power analysis
• Experience in compiler design or parallel computing
• Knowledge of simulation environments and fault injection techniques
• Exposure to scalable hardware design using Chisel, CIRCT, or similar methodologies