Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is establishing a new research institute fully dedicated to semiconductors, quantum, photonics, and the development of high-tech systems and chips of the future.
The new institute merges one existing institute with two initiatives: the Eindhoven Hendrik Casimir Institute (EHCI), the High Tech Systems Center (HTSC), and the Future Chips Flagship (FCF). These entities will be fully integrated into the new institute, which will continue, connect, and deepen their work within the broader strategic direction of the university.
The institute’s ambition aligns directly with recent policy initiatives such as the European Chips Act and the Draghi-report. Both underscore the importance of Europe retaining control over the development, production, and application of key technologies that will shape the decades to come.
Leading role in advanced technology
Europe is currently heavily reliant on non-European players for chips, high-tech production equipment, and critical raw materials. This leaves the continent vulnerable to geopolitical tensions and disruptions in supply chains. There is also the risk of losing influence over technological standards and ethical frameworks in areas such as AI, energy efficiency, data storage, resource scarcity, and sustainable production. With the launch of this new institute, TU/e is directly contributing to Europe’s ambition to maintain a leading position in high-end technology.
"Chips and high-tech systems are far more than just engines of digital innovation. They are key to our economic strength, geopolitical resilience, and global sustainability."
A single, recognisable point of contact
The new institute brings together more than 700 researchers working in chip technology, high-precision equipment, advanced materials and processes, and the fundamental science underpinning these fields. Researchers from the connected disciplines will be able to find each other more easily, share insights more readily, and collaborate more effectively across disciplinary boundaries.By consolidating research in emerging technologies under one roof, TU/e offers the outside world a single, recognisable point of contact in these domains. For researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, the institute should become the go-to destination for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
At the same time, the institute will accelerate the translation of scientific insights into innovative applications. Through startups, spin-offs, and industry partnerships, technological breakthroughs will find their way to society more quickly. In doing so, TU/e further solidifies its role as a key player in the European innovation landscape, from AI and climate solutions to healthcare, digital industry, and complex systems engineering.
Expansion of educational programmes
"Thanks to our leading research and unique position in the Brainport region, TU/e is perfectly positioned to take the lead in driving sustainable digital innovation," Lenaerts continues. "This new institute pools knowledge and talent to push technological boundaries, while strengthening Europe’s resilience and autonomy in a world that seems less predictable than it once was."As part of the Beethoven programme, TU/e is also significantly expanding its educational offerings in the semiconductor field to tackle one of the sector’s greatest challenges: the shortage of skilled talent.
Combined with the launch of this new institute, TU/e is taking a major step forward in reinforcing its impact through research, education, and societal impact.
Four core domains
The institute will organise its research across four core domains that together span the entire innovation ecosystem, from fundamental science to industrial application. The domains are closely interlinked, and researchers affiliated with the institute are actively encouraged to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries.Future Chips
This domain includes TU/e’s groundbreaking research into advanced chip technologies, including heterogeneous integration, energy-efficient architectures, and new paradigms in computing, communication, and sensor technology. It encompasses areas such as neuromorphic computing, integrated photonic systems, and other emerging technologies that are redefining the limits of conventional electronics.High Precision Equipment
Research into fast, energy-efficient, and highly accurate production systems. This also includes the use of digital twins i.e. virtual models that improve processes through simulation and help prevent potential malfunctions before they occur.
