Dr. Stephan Guttowski, Managing Director, Research Fab Microelectronics Germany (FMD) and the Fraunhofer Group for Microelectronics talks about a range of issues like the importance of the microelectronics industry, its role in strengthening the economy, and the possible collaboration between Germany and India in this sector. FMD is one of the leading research association for micro- and nanoelectronics applications and systems. Developing a robust microelectronics industry in India can create jobs essential for long-term economic growth. Mr. Guttowski believes that opportunities exist in energy, logistics, and transportation, where German innovations can help meet the demands of India’s large population and industrial landscape. He is in India to participate in the SEMICON India 2024 event in the national capital.
Please share FMD’s contributions in advanced research in micro and nanoelectronics
The FMD is a non-academic, non-profit research alliance composed of 11 institutes of the Fraunhofer Group of Microelectronics and 2 institutes of the Leibniz Association. With approximately 4,900 employees, predominantly scientists and technical experts, our mission is to foster the growth of the microelectronics industry in Germany and Europe. We achieve this by providing a wide range of services, tools, equipment, and innovations.
Each year, over 1,000 companies leverage our expertise, with around 500 of those coming from outside Germany, primarily within Europe. Our key areas of specialization include heterogeneous integration, advanced packaging, and design. Additionally, we work in close collaboration with other research organizations like IMEC or CEA-Leti to complement each other’s focus areas and enhance collective capabilities.
Microelectronics is often highlighted as a critical component of modern economies. Could you elaborate on its importance and the potential you see for India in this sector?
Microelectronics is indeed a pivotal enabling technology, fundamental to the growth of a modern economy. Virtually every contemporary application relies on microelectronics, which often forms the unique selling proposition of many products.
For India, fostering a robust microelectronics sector could create highly skilled, well-compensated jobs, which is essential for sustained economic growth. I see particular promise in sectors such as the automotive industry, where India’s burgeoning manufacturing capabilities could benefit from Germany’s well-established microelectronics expertise. Furthermore, there are ample opportunities in the energy sector, logistics, and transportation, where Germany’s technological solutions could effectively support India’s vast population and industrial requirements.
Could you highlight some of the recent technological advancements your team at FMD is currently focussing on?
Our team is actively engaged in several critical areas, including sensor systems, power electronics, high-frequency and terahertz applications, and photonics. Beyond developing components and modules, we also emphasize the application software and design capabilities that enable these technologies. One of the standout aspects of our work is our design platforms and multi-project wafer services. This enables companies, including those in India, to design their own chips and produce initial prototypes at a lower cost before scaling up to full-scale manufacturing. Such design enablement is crucial in bringing new applications to life.
What do you see as the key challenges and opportunities in fostering research collaboration between Germany and India?
Dr. Guttowski: One significant challenge lies in establishing a robust research ecosystem, which requires substantial investment and time. The facilities and equipment needed for microelectronics research can quickly become outdated, so building infrastructure in the right way is crucial to avoid resource wastage. Another challenge is ensuring that there is a well-educated talent pool with the right experience in this field. This is where collaboration between Germany and India can be incredibly valuable. We can share our experience in building research institutions, and competence centers, and fostering university-industry partnerships.
The opportunities are immense, particularly in leveraging each other’s strengths. Germany has a rich history in microelectronics research, while India boasts a growing industrial base and a large, young population. By working together, we can accelerate the development of the microelectronics sector in both countries.
Could you tell us about your experience in India and your primary objectives for this visit?
I am in India to participate in the ACMA annual conference and the Semicon India event. I’m honored to have been invited to deliver a keynote at Semicon India and also meet with many key decision makers in this field. The primary goal of my visit is to strengthen collaboration between the 13 FMD institutes (Fraunhofer and Leibniz) and Indian organisations. Fraunhofer for example already has an Indian Office since over 16 years which is extremely well positioned, and we are looking to deepen our partnerships to spur innovation in the microelectronics sector. Events like these provide an excellent platform for us to connect with Indian industry leaders and academia, and explore new opportunities for joint research and development.