In a landmark development that marks a significant stride toward global collaboration in semiconductor technology, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur and Singapore’s Institute of Microelectronics (IME), a core research entity under the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), have formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This important collaboration was officially announced at the prestigious SEMICON Southeast Asia 2025, a key industry event drawing top experts and innovators from the semiconductor sector.
A Framework for Cutting-Edge Semiconductor Research
The MoU lays down a comprehensive framework to foster collaborative research and human capital development in the rapidly evolving field of semiconductor technologies. Both institutions will pool their expertise to advance a wide spectrum of high-impact research areas, including:
- Post-Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (post-CMOS) technologies
- Advanced transistor technologies
- Heterogeneous integration and chip packaging
- AI-driven hardware accelerators
- Quantum devices and photonic systems
- Thermal management and reliability diagnostics
This multi-disciplinary approach is aimed at driving innovation across both fundamental and applied research in semiconductors, an industry pivotal to the global digital economy.
Strategic Importance of the Partnership
Professor Anandaroop Bhattacharya, from IIT Kharagpur’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, described the collaboration as “a transformative step” in expanding the institution’s global engagement in semiconductor research. He highlighted that as India emerges as a major player in semiconductor manufacturing and technology development, partnerships like this are essential for building a resilient and competitive technology ecosystem.
The MoU underscores India’s ambition to strengthen its foothold in the semiconductor domain by tapping into international expertise and fostering innovation.
Key Initiatives and Programs under the MoU
Beyond research, the partnership commits to fostering human capital development through various initiatives:
- Bilateral exchange programs for researchers, engineers, and students
- Specialized training workshops focused on the latest semiconductor technologies
- Joint workshops and symposiums to share knowledge and co-create innovative solutions
These programs aim to equip a new generation of semiconductor professionals with the skills needed to meet the demands of the global market, ensuring both India and Singapore maintain leadership in this critical sector.
Voices from Both Institutions
Professor Yeo Yee Chia, Deputy Chief Executive for Innovation and Enterprise at A*STAR, emphasized the value of collaborative innovation. He remarked, “Singapore’s progress in the semiconductor domain is deeply rooted in collaborative ventures spanning research, industry, and government. Through platforms like Innovate Together, we seek to co-create solutions addressing shared challenges and to foster meaningful innovation.” This vision aligns closely with the goals set out in the MoU with IIT Kharagpur.
Background: IIT Kharagpur and A*STAR’s IME
Founded in 1951, IIT Kharagpur stands as one of India’s foremost science and technology institutions, widely respected for its pioneering work in microelectronics and materials research. Its strategic focus on semiconductor research complements India’s broader ambitions in the Make in India initiative, aimed at boosting domestic technology capabilities.
On the other hand, A*STAR, Singapore’s premier public research agency, plays a crucial role in bridging cutting-edge scientific research with real-world industrial applications. IME, as a specialized institute within A*STAR, is a global leader in microelectronics research, contributing significantly to Singapore’s reputation as a semiconductor hub in Southeast Asia.
Looking Ahead: A New Era of Semiconductor Collaboration
The MoU between IIT Kharagpur and Singapore’s IME signals a promising new chapter in international semiconductor cooperation. As the global semiconductor landscape becomes more complex and competitive, such collaborations are vital to accelerate innovation, build skilled talent pipelines, and address common industry challenges.
This partnership is expected to not only enhance the research capabilities of both entities but also to contribute significantly to the semiconductor ecosystems of India and Singapore, strengthening their positions on the world stage.
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