Ongoing Development of Roadmaps in Microelectronics and Quantum Technologies

Proactively driving forward research and new technologies in Germany – that is the aim of the High-Tech Agenda Germany (HTAD). The HTAD prioritises six key technologies in which research and technological progress are of crucial importance for Germany’s future viability. Dialogues (“Partnerdialoge”) are held as part of the roadmap development for these key technologies. In these dialogues, the participating federal ministries, the federal states and the respective specialist communities jointly define concrete milestones for achieving the shared goals.

A dialogue took place in Bochum on 5 March at the symposium “Mikroelektronik-Forschung in Deutschland: von den Grundlagen zur Anwendung” (Microelectronics Research in Germany: From Fundamentals to Applications). Representatives from the field of microelectronics research at German universities, non-university research institutions and industry discussed the topic under the heading “From Lab to Fab – Forschung und Industrie: (k)ein Widerspruch?” (From Lab to Fab – Research and Industry: (Is it) a contradiction?). What is needed to shorten the path from lab to fab? Which administrative hurdles are currently hindering the transfer? Which formats are already working well? Potential solutions were discussed, which are to be specifically addressed in the course of implementing the HTAD.

As part of the “Konzertierte Aktion Mikroelektronik” (Concerted Action on Microelectronics), the entire specialist community can actively participate in this discussion. Opportunities to get involved are listed at www.elektronikforschung.de; see: https://www.elektronikforschung.de/mikroelektronik/roadmapping.

Representatives from research institutions, universities, companies, federal states and public sector users also met in a hybrid format on 9 March to discuss the key technology of quantum technologies. The main focus this time was on quantum sensing. As quantum technologies are a comparatively young but highly promising field for enhancing competitiveness and value creation, it is essential to strengthen the ecosystem at an early stage, prepare for the transfer to practical applications and advance technological sovereignty. In quantum sensor technology in particular, it is important to take the perspectives of specific users into account during technology development. Innovative funding instruments were discussed in this context during the dialogue.

Further information:

• You can find an overview of the HTAD’s objectives and initiatives regarding microelectronics as a key technology here, and regarding quantum technologies here.