The THINK workstream is a cornerstone of the IPCEI ME/CT initiative, addressing one of the most pressing needs of our digital age: secure and sustainable data processing and storage. In a recent presentation, Sandra EGER, Head of Public Funding at AT&S, shared how THINK focuses on enabling energy-efficient and reliable solutions across the microelectronics value chain.

What Makes THINK Essential?

Data is the backbone of modern technology, powering everything from autonomous systems to healthcare devices. But as our reliance on data grows, so does the need for secure, efficient, and sustainable ways to process and store it. THINK tackles these challenges by:

• Developing next-generation chips and systems for data processing and storage.
• Incorporating cutting-edge materials, tools, and packaging technologies to enhance performance.
• Prioritizing energy efficiency to reduce environmental impact while maintaining reliability.

The THINK workstream doesn't just stop at creating better chips—it aims to strengthen Europe’s leadership in microelectronics by addressing key challenges in innovation, security, and sustainability.

THINK’s Role in the IPCEI ME/CT Ecosystem

The IPCEI ME/CT initiative is structured around four interconnected workstreams: SENSE, THINK, ACT, and COMMUNICATE. Together, they create a seamless flow of innovation:

• SENSE collects the data.
• THINK processes it.
• ACT transforms it into action.
• COMMUNICATE ensures everything stays connected.

THINK is the critical step that transforms raw data into meaningful insights, enabling smarter decisions and efficient systems. Without THINK, the data collected by sensors wouldn’t reach its full potential.

Driving Change Across Industries

THINK’s innovations are poised to make a significant impact across multiple sectors:

• Mobility: Developing chips for autonomous vehicles that process data faster and more securely.
• Healthcare: Enabling data-driven diagnostics and monitoring through advanced microelectronics.
• Sustainability: Supporting green initiatives with low-power data storage and processing technologies.
• Manufacturing: Empowering Industry 4.0 with intelligent systems and efficient data flows.

These advancements are not just technological milestones—they’re stepping stones to a greener, smarter, and more connected future for Europe.

Overcoming Challenges

Achieving these goals requires addressing complex challenges, including:

• Energy Efficiency: Designing chips that consume less power while delivering high performance.
• Affordability: Ensuring cutting-edge technologies are accessible and scalable.
• Reliability: Maintaining secure and dependable systems for critical applications.

By meeting these challenges head-on, THINK is setting the standard for innovation in microelectronics.

Looking Ahead

THINK is more than just a workstream—it’s a vision for Europe’s future in microelectronics. As we continue to explore the interconnected workstreams of IPCEI ME/CT, it becomes clear how THINK plays a pivotal role in driving Europe’s digital and green transformation.

Stay tuned for further insights into THINK and the broader IPCEI ME/CT initiative as we explore how SENSE, ACT, and COMMUNICATE complement this transformative effort. Together, these workstreams are paving the way for sustainable and cutting-edge technologies across Europe.

Ready to dive deeper? Watch Sandra EGER’s full presentation and discover the innovations shaping tomorrow’s world.