Davey Boss: "You have to look for opportunities yourself."
When Davey Boss started his bachelor's degree in Chemistry at Radboud University, he could not have predicted that he would eventually end up in chip technology. What started as an interest in materials science grew into a career at NXP Semiconductors, where he now works as a project leader on radar products for the automotive sector.
Applied research
During his studies, Boss discovered that he derived more satisfaction from applied research than from pure chemical synthesis. “Materials science appealed to me because of its tangible applications and its link to industry,” he explains. His interest was further fuelled by the ‘Condensed Matter Lab’ module, where he gained hands-on experience with materials and their properties.
This interest led to an internship with the Applied Materials Science group at the Institute for Molecules and Materials (IMM) at Radboud University. There, he worked on innovative LED technologies. “It was a completely new concept for me, involving a lot of self-discovery. That made it all the more fascinating,” says Boss.
Davey Boss
The move to NXP
His next step was an internship at NXP, an opportunity that arose through discussions with supervisors and fellow students. “I was given a tour and was able to choose for myself which project suited me best. I really appreciated that freedom.”
At NXP, Boss worked with electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), a technique for analysing the crystalline structure of materials. His task was to develop methods for reliable sample preparation. “EBSD is extremely sensitive to defects, which not only affect the measurement data but can also compromise the performance of chips.”
What appealed to him most was the collaboration with experts from various disciplines. “You work with engineers who’ve been in the business for forty years, but also with PhDs who keep an eye on the big picture. That was an incredibly educational experience.”
From internship to permanent job
After his work placement, Boss was offered a job at NXP. Since November, he has been working as a project manager on radar products for the automotive sector. “This is where various disciplines come together: chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering and electrical engineering. That makes the work very dynamic.”
His work fits within the broader ambitions of the Nijmegen region in the field of Health & High Tech. Project Beethoven, an initiative focused on talent development in the semiconductor industry, ties in with this. “It is important that we invest in the future of chip technology, as it forms the basis for innovation and economic growth in an increasingly digital world.”
Sustainability plays a major role in this. “NXP is collaborating with universities and other companies on more environmentally friendly production processes,” explains Boss. One example is the NWO Circular Circuits programme, which is investigating how chip waste can be reduced through the use of more efficient and sustainable materials. With companies such as NXP, Nexperia and CITC based at the Noviotech Campus, and Radboud University as a knowledge partner, Nijmegen is strongly represented in this development.
Advice to students
Boss encourages students to actively seek out opportunities in chip technology. “Immerse yourself in the sector and discover which aspects interest you most. Networking is crucial in this regard. Don’t be afraid to approach companies directly with a well-thought-out idea or an interest in an internship.”
According to Boss, an open mindset and seizing opportunities are essential. “As a student, it can sometimes seem like a big step to get in touch with companies. But my advice is: just do it. Send that email, ask those questions and find out what’s possible. The semiconductor industry needs talent and there are huge opportunities.”
