Semiconductors: Opportunities and Challenges – A Key Event at INL

On 17 March, the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) hosted the event “Semiconductors: Opportunities and Challenges”, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss Portugal’s semiconductor development strategy. Discussions centred on available infrastructure and new pilot lines, necessary investments, workforce development, and international collaborations—crucial elements for positioning Portugal within the broader European and global semiconductor ecosystem.

INL served as a platform for insightful discussions on the role of semiconductors in shaping our digital future. Organised together by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), the National Innovation Agency (ANI), the Norte Portugal Regional Coordination and Development Commission (CCDR-N), and INL, with the support of the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation and the Ministry of Economy, the event highlighted key industry trends and collaboration opportunities that underscore the growing global interest in semiconductor supply chains, technological sovereignty, and upskilled workforces.

This high-profile event featured multiple panel discussions, a demo exhibition, and a poster session showcasing contributions from industries, academia, and research institutions across the country. The 26 research posters—presented by 15 entities—along with an exhibition of R&D-driven products and solutions provided a comprehensive overview of the sector’s progress and challenges.

Why Are Semiconductors So Important?

Semiconductors are the building blocks of modern technology. They lie at the core of integrated circuits and electronic components, driving everything from computing and telecommunications to transportation, healthcare, and energy-efficient systems. Their unique properties facilitate information processing, data storage, and seamless wireless communications, making them indispensable in our digital, interconnected world.

From smartphones and laptops to autonomous vehicles, medical devices, and AI-driven innovations, semiconductors power the global economy. As demand for advanced microelectronics continues to rise, securing robust supply chains and fostering technological advancements have become critical priorities for governments and industry players alike.

Event Highlights

The event commenced with an opening session given by the INL Director-General, Professor Clivia M. Sotomayor Torres, followed by speeches from the Portuguese Secretary of State for Economy, João Rui Ferreira, and the Spanish Secretary General for Research, Eva Ortega Paíno.

The agenda featured several insightful panel discussions, including:

· The Geostrategic Importance of Semiconductors – exploring the role of semiconductors in national and regional technological independence.

· Opportunities and Challenges in Semiconductors – a session featuring Chips JU Executive Director Jari Kinaret and directors from key Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs), addressing the research and development landscape.

· Industry Perspectives on Semiconductor Growth – moderated by Pedro Almeida (Fraunhofer Portugal), bringing together industry and RTO representatives from Portugal and Brazil. The discussion included an introduction of the new Chips JU project APECS.

(Advanced Packaging and Heterogeneous Integration for Electronic Components and Systems) Pilot Line, along with continuous innovation and market dynamics.

· Portuguese Strategy for Semiconductors – a crucial discussion highlighting key regional and national projects, including the POEMS—Portuguese Competence Centre in Semiconductors, co-funded by the European Union and by national funds, through FCT, one of the main supporters of this event. Panelists discussed about the available infrastructure, necessary investments, workforce development, and international collaborations—crucial elements for positioning Portugal within the broader European and global semiconductor ecosystem.

In addition to the panel discussions, the demo exhibition and poster session showcased ongoing technological developments, offering an engaging snapshot of the sector’s current achievements and future potential.

The event concluded with remarks from the Portuguese Minister of Education, Science and Innovation, Fernando Alexandre, who emphasised the importance of strengthening Portugal’s semiconductor strategy. He underlined the role of international partnerships in advancing the sector, particularly within the European initiative Chips JU, which aims to reinforce semiconductor capacities across the continent. He also welcomed renewed collaborations between Portugal and leading institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin, Carnegie Mellon University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), expressing confidence in their potential to drive innovation in the field.

The Minister further highlighted the significance of Project POEMS, a collaborative initiative led by INL and 16 partners, which aligns with the European agenda for a highly skilled workforce. The project aims to bridge academia and industry, ensuring the availability of talent essential for the sector’s long-term development.

Looking Ahead

The event reinforced the importance of international collaboration in semiconductor research, manufacturing, and policy-making. As Europe and its global partners navigate the evolving semiconductor landscape, fostering innovation, investment, and strategic partnerships will be essential to ensuring a resilient and competitive industry.