Imec and Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) have signed a strategic collaboration agreement, marking a new chapter in their long-standing relationship and reinforcing the Eindhoven region's position as a global hub for semiconductor innovation. The agreement establishes a framework for accelerated research collaboration and a shared strategic agenda, overseen by a joint steering committee at the executive level.
A dedicated valorization committee will focus on translating research outcomes into societal and economic impact, an area where imec has built a strong track record across the Netherlands, from its long-standing presence at the High Tech Campus Eindhoven in Holst Centre to its activities in Wageningen and Nijmegen through OnePlanet Research Center.
Rooted in the Eindhoven ecosystem
For imec, this agreement is a natural extension of more than 20 years of roots in the Eindhoven region. Operating from the High Tech Campus Eindhoven, imec the Netherlands has built an extensive network of collaborations with industry, knowledge institutions, and public partners across the region.
"This agreement reflects what we believe in: that the most impactful semiconductor, incl. 3D Integration, Integrated Photonics, Quantum and not to forget AI, innovation happens when academia, industry, and research centers work in close proximity, sharing infrastructure, talent, and ambition," said Jesse Robbers, VP of imec and Managing Director of imec the Netherlands.
Part of a broader semiconductor ambition
The agreement aligns with imec's academic excellence strategy: building long-term partnerships with leading universities that bring together complementary expertise, top talent, and a shared drive to advance semiconductor innovation. TU/e, with over 700 researchers active in semiconductors, quantum technology, photonics, and advanced materials through its Casimir Institute, is a key node in that network.
This collaboration also connects to broader European ambitions. Both imec and TU/e are active contributors to EU Chips Act initiatives, including the ChipNL Competence Center and the European Chip Design Platform, reinforcing the strategic importance of the Eindhoven–Leuven corridor for Europe's semiconductor sovereignty.
