Swedish semiconductor capability to be strengthened by Chalmers, Lund University and KTH

During the pandemic, there was a global shortage of semiconductors, which meant delivery delays on everything from cars to mobile phones. To strengthen Europe's position, the EU has initiated the European Chips Act. One goal is for 20 percent of the world's chip production to take place within the European Union by 2030. In Sweden, as part of the initiative, Vinnova (the Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems) plans to finance the establishment of a national competence centre for semiconductors.

Lund University, Chalmers University of Technology and KTH Royal Institute of Technology - three universities that account for the majority of Swedish education and research in the field of semiconductors - are now joining forces to strengthen the supply of skills and access to research infrastructure in the country.

The three universities will train employees at small and medium-sized companies and startups, with knowledge of technology and software support needed for development of semiconductor systems. They also aim to simplify access to pilot lines, which are essential facilities for developing and scaling-up new semiconductor technology. The higher education institutions also highlight the need for increased learning in the form of a broad range of undergraduate courses and collaboration with industry in terms of in-demand skills development for professionals. "Our three universities strive to work together to strengthen the competitiveness of Swedish industry and society for digitalisation, security and the green transition. In a troubled world, we create independence and contribute to ensuring access to critical components in Europe," says Erik Renström, Vice-Chancellor of Lund University.

"The expertise and infrastructure in the form of cleanrooms and design environments that exist at our universities gives Sweden a strong starting point in a European context. The technical universities can be socially important actors of crucial importance and this investment is a way for us to clearly take that responsibility," says Martin Nilsson Jacobi, President of Chalmers.

"We are well equipped to join forces to become a strong partner for the next step in the EU's chips initiative. We three universities both complement and strengthen each other," says Anders Söderholm, President of KTH.

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Updated 19 March 2024, 13:20Published 19 March 2024, 13:20

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