Masdar, Khalifa varsity to develop photonics, 5G tech

ABU DHABI / WAM

Two of Abu Dhabi’s leading R&D institutions, Masdar Institute of Science and Technology and Khalifa University, have entered into a partnership with the Semiconductor Research Corporation (SRC) and GLOBALFOUNDRIES to develop the next generation of light-based data transmission (photonics) and wireless network standards (5G).
The partnership is part of an innovative three-year program that will see the launch of a Center of Excellence on Integrated Photonics, which leverages each institution’s strengths in research, materials science, and product development.
The research initiative is designed to support the further development of GLOBALFOUNDRIES’ technology and create commercial solutions for the telecommunications and electronics markets. The program will be funded by a grant from Mubadala Development Company and will be based at both Masdar Institute and Khalifa University. The Semiconductor Research Corporation, known for its extensive experience in fostering quality academic research, will help manage the program and ensure global research standards are met.
The launch event was attended by Dr Steve Griffiths, Vice President for Research and Interim Associate Provost, Masdar Institute, Dr Rafic Makki, GLOBALFOUNDRIES Executive Fellow and Senior Vice President, and Dr Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President, Khalifa University.
Dr Griffiths of Masdar Institute said: “This strategic partnership and the leading role of Masdar Institute faculty members illustrates our commitment to advancing research and human capital development in photonics and 5G communications. We believe this partnership with Khalifa University, SRC and GLOBALFOUNDRIES will create a wide range of positive outcomes for the UAE in terms of developing innovations and capacity building in the semiconductors sector, which is critical to the country’s innovative knowledge economy transition.”