europe boosts chip research with new eindhoven institute
Eindhoven, Wednesday, 25 June 2025.
the eindhoven university of technology (tu/e) has established a new research institute. it focuses on semiconductors and quantum photonics. the institute boasts over 700 researchers. this launch is timely, aligning with the european chips act. the aim is to strengthen europe’s position in high-end technology. this initiative could reshape the innovation landscape. it may particularly impact companies like asml, a major player in the semiconductor industry.
Institute’s strategic alignment
The new institute consolidates the Eindhoven Hendrik Casimir Institute (EHCI), the High Tech Systems Center (HTSC), and the Future Chips Flagship (FCF) [1]. This integration seeks to enhance their work within the university’s broader strategic vision [1]. The initiative directly supports the European Chips Act and the Draghi Report, both of which emphasize the importance of european control over key technologies [1]. These technologies are expected to shape the coming decades [1].
Europe’s technological ambition
Europe currently relies heavily on non-european suppliers for chips, high-tech manufacturing equipment and crucial raw materials [1]. This dependence exposes the continent to geopolitical risks and supply chain disruptions [1]. The tu/e’s new institute aims to help europe maintain its leadership in advanced technologies [1]. According to tu/e president silvia lenaerts, a robust research and innovation system is crucial for maintaining europe’s competitiveness [1]. Lenaerts added that chips and high-tech systems are vital for economic strength, geopolitical resilience and global sustainability [1].
Impact on innovation and collaboration
By consolidating research efforts, tu/e aims to provide a central hub for knowledge exchange and collaboration [1]. The institute seeks to accelerate the translation of scientific insights into practical applications [1]. This includes fostering startups, spin-offs, and industry partnerships [1]. These efforts should allow technological breakthroughs to reach society more quickly [1]. Tu/e intends to solidify its position as a key player in european innovation, spanning areas from artificial intelligence and climate solutions to healthcare and digital industry [1].
Expanding educational programs
As part of the beethoven program, tu/e is significantly expanding its educational offerings in the semiconductor field [1]. This expansion addresses a critical challenge: the shortage of skilled talent in the industry [1]. Furthermore, the institute will organize its research across four core areas, spanning the entire innovation ecosystem from basic science to industrial applications [1]. These areas are interconnected, encouraging researchers to collaborate across disciplines [1].
Implications for investors
Investors should note that the european union is committed to adopting ‘post-quantum cryptography’ [2]. eu member states, supported by the european commission, have released a roadmap and timeline for this transition [2]. This move addresses cybersecurity threats from future quantum computers [2]. the roadmap requires all eu members to start transitioning to post-quantum cryptography by the end of 2026 [2]. Upgrades to critical infrastructure protection systems must be completed by the end of 2030 [2].