Can Lasers Help Reinvigorate Lithuania’s Semiconductor Industry?

At the 46th National Physics Conference (LNFk-46), held in Kaunas University of  Technology (KTU) on October 9–10, one of the plenary session presentations focused on the future of semiconductor technologies in Lithuania. Dr. Gediminas Račiukaitis,  coordinator of the ChipsC2-LT project, delivered a talk entitled “Can Lasers Help Reinvigorate Lithuania’s Semiconductor Industry?” The presentation addressed the objectives of the European Union’s Chips Act, Lithuania’s role within the broader semiconductor ecosystem, and how laser technologies could serve as a cornerstone for restoring and strengthening the country’s microelectronics potential.

Dr. G. Račiukaitis emphasized that the Lithuanian Chips Competence Centre (ChipsC2-LT), operating as a “one-stop-shop” platform, aims to connect science and industry—from microchip design to advanced packaging technologies. The project, funded under the European Chips Joint Undertaking (Chips JU), involves four main partners: FTMC, Vilnius University, Vilnius TECH, and Kaunas University of Technology (KTU). It represents Lithuania’s contribution to the European semiconductor network, which unites more than 30 competence centers across the continent. During the presentation, several areas were highlighted in which Lithuania already holds high added value:
· Laser technologies for advanced semiconductor packaging,
· Heterogeneous integration and microchip interconnection solutions,
· III–V compound and THz technology research,
· GaN (Gallium Nitride) Materials
· Chip Design and RF Circuits
· ASIC and MEMS Technologies
· Close collaboration with Taiwan’s Ultra-Fast Laser Technology Center (ULTRI).

In conclusion, Dr. G. Račiukaitis noted that the European Chips Act still requires improvement to genuinely stimulate innovation and investment across Europe. However, projects like ChipsC2-LT demonstrate that regional collaboration can become a driving force toward technological independence. “Lasers are not only our strength but also an opportunity to reignite the revival of Lithuania’s semiconductor industry,” -said Dr. G. Račiukaitis.

More information about this event: https://lnfk.ktu.edu/