DARMSTADT, Germany, Nov. 07, 2024 –
Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, and Intel Corporation, one of the world's largest semiconductor designers and manufacturers, have begun the implementation of the new academic research program in Europe announced last year for more sustainable solutions in semiconductor manufacturing. In total, six projects involving eleven universities and institutes from six European countries are being conducted. The research program aims to facilitate breakthroughs in manufacturing processes and technologies in the semiconductor industry with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning. The focus includes the discovery and development of new materials, more efficient processes, and the reduction of waste.
"The semiconductor industry is in a state of dynamic development with enormous investments worldwide. Artificial Intelligence will be one of the major growth drivers for the industry in the coming years. Therefore, industry investments must also flow into sustainability to help reduce the ecological footprint and use resources more efficiently. This requires innovations and collaboration along the semiconductor value chain, as well as with science and policy-makers. We are very much looking forward to the multidisciplinary collaboration in this research program with all participants. Together, we aim to explore previously unknown paths and potentials from which the entire semiconductor industry can benefit," said Dr. Anja Jatsch, Head of Materials Innovation Pipeline Electronics at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.
"Intel is committed to driving more sustainable computing for a more sustainable future. Collaboration among the entire value chain to develop new materials and more efficient processes are imperative to realizing this ambition and tackle key challenges in semiconductor manufacturing. This research program is an excellent example of how we can accelerate progress when we work together and collectively drive toward a net-zero future," said Sanjay Natarajan, SVP & GM, Components Research, Intel.
European Research Program with Eleven Institutions from Six Countries
In 2023, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany and Intel announced the joint investment in the academic research program for a period of three years. Consequently, both companies initiated a "Call for Proposals" for research groups in Europe. This submission and selection process has been successfully completed. Eleven selected scientific institutions from Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom have commenced their project work.1 Both companies will work closely with the researchers and collaborate directly with all parties involved throughout the duration of the projects. One goal of the investment is to build upon the existing potentials of the European research landscape and to contribute to specifically promoting semiconductor research, inspiring future talents for the industry, and further strengthening Europe's position in the global semiconductor industry.