Research Fab Microelectronics Germany

Research, development and innovation from one source

The Research Fab Microelectronics Germany is a cooperation between 13 Fraunhofer institutes and the two Leibniz institutes FBH and IHP. It serves as the central point of contact for all matters related to micro- and nanoelectronic research and development in Germany and across Europe. As a one-stop shop, FMD brings together advanced technologies and system solutions from its cooperating institutes to provide a customized, comprehensive portfolio. Established within FMD's shared virtual framework in 2017, this joint research cooperation has grown into one of the largest of its kind, now comprising more than 5,400 employees and a uniquely broad range of expertise and infrastructure. 

FMD takes a leading role in promoting collaboration across different locations and technologies, actively working to solve both current and emerging challenges in electronics research. In doing so, it helps strengthen the long-term technological resilience of Germany and Europe. As a strategic partner in research policy, FMD contributes to shaping national and European research agendas and supports the development of key innovations for the future.

Between 2017 and 2021, the former German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (today: The Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space) suppported the modernization of the research infrastructure at the FMD cooperating institutes. 

Forschungsfabrik Mikroelektronik Deutschland FMD
© Armin Okulla
The FMD Administrative Office in Berlin

Fraunhofer EMFT as Part of the FMD 

Fraunhofer EMFT is one of 15 research institutes cooperating within the Research Fab Microelectronics Germany (FMD). As part of the FMD, Fraunhofer EMFT contributes its expertise in sensor technology, actuators, and microintegration, collaborating closely with partner institutes on cross-technology solutions. The FMD serves as a central point of contact (“one-stop shop”) for research and development in micro- and nanoelectronics, supporting initiatives such as “Green ICT @ FMD” and projects within the framework of the EU Chips Act.

The FMD Focus Areas 

The focus areas reflect the strategic direction of the FMD, which aims to strengthen Germany's competitiveness in microelectronics through interdisciplinary research and development. The six "Hot Topics" of the Research Fab Microelectronics Germany provide in-depth insights into current research priorities and forward-looking projects in microelectronics:

  •     Sustainability
  •     Security 
  •     Next Generation Computing
  •     Mobility
  •     Communication
  •     Production

Since 2024, FMD has been a registered trademark of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. For further information, please visit https://www.forschungsfabrik-mikroelektronik.de/en. You may also explore our virtual 3D showroom.

Current Projects of the FMD at a Glance

The Research Fab Microelectronics Germany (FMD) is actively involved in various areas of microelectronics research and development – including projects on quantum and neuromorphic computing, as well as sustainable information and communication technologies (ICT). In addition, the FMD is committed to the qualification of skilled workers and supports start-ups, research groups, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in implementing their innovation projects. Further information can be found on the project websites linked below.

 

APECS Pilot Line

The APECS pilot line strengthens Europe's technological sovereignty and competitiveness, specifically supporting SMEs and start-ups along the entire value chain.

 

Competence Center Green ICT @ FMD

"Green ICT @ FMD" promotes sustainable microelectronics and supports the German government's Green ICT mission through applied research.

 

FMD-QNC

With the "FMD-QNC" project, FMD and its partners have been pooling their expertise since 2022 to strategically expand research on quantum and neuromorphic computing in Germany

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