A University of Sheffield professor is poised to aid the UK government in bolstering the country’s semiconductor sector, as part of a newly formed advisory panel. Professor John Goodenough, affiliated with the University’s Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, joins a panel of experts aiming to assist the government in ensuring a stable supply of chips, which are integral to every electronic device.
From smartphones and computers to ventilators and power plants, virtually all technological devices rely on semiconductors. Their significance in our modern world cannot be overstated; however, their availability has been constrained since the onset of the pandemic. The Semiconductor Advisory Panel, composed of prominent industry innovators, is set to offer guidance to the government on optimising the UK’s domestic semiconductor capabilities, guaranteeing chip supply security, and safeguarding national security.
This panel’s role extends to aiding the government in executing its National Semiconductor Strategy, a two-decade vision centred around three key objectives: nurturing the domestic semiconductor sector, minimising the risk of supply chain disruptions, and upholding national security. In this assembly of experts, Professor Goodenough stands as the sole academic representative, alongside distinguished figures from major industry players such as Arm, IQE, and Pragmatic.
Professor John Goodenough, Chair in Microelectronic Systems at the University of Sheffield, said: “The world as we know it would grind to a halt without semiconductors – they are a crucial part of every single electronic device that we all use, everywhere in every part of our lives. As we rely on these chips so much, it’s now more important than ever that the UK has the capabilities to produce our own chips for both national security but to also help grow our economy.
“I am honoured to be part of this panel that will help keep the UK at the forefront of the global semiconductor industry.”
The University of Sheffield stands as a leading institution in semiconductor research on the global stage. Its Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering houses the National Epitaxy Facility, a pivotal element of the UK’s semiconductor R&D. This facility offers the resources and expertise required to advance new semiconductor technologies from initial discovery to large-scale production.
Additionally, Sheffield plays a crucial role in educating the next generation of semiconductor engineers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for the UK’s industrial needs. Through its Electronics and Computer Engineering program, the university produces graduates who bridge the skills gap in chip design. Recognising the growing importance of semiconductors, the university teaches its engineering students to design chips, with a strong emphasis on security.
The University’s collaboration with semiconductor companies Bay Photonics and Phlux Technology on an Innovate UK-funded initiative aims to address the UK’s skills shortage. This project involves creating free online courses for UK schools and establishing a remote lab for semiconductor device testing. The initiative targets students from year 10 onwards, providing them with essential semiconductor skills and knowledge before they pursue higher education.
Professor Goodenough added: “The future of innovation and technology are in the hands of chip designers and manufacturers, so for the UK it is crucial that we have a workforce highly skilled in semiconductors so we can compete on the international stage. This is what we are doing at the University of Sheffield – we’re using our world-leading semiconductor R&D to inform our teaching to help make our engineering graduates the most skilled in the world and boost our domestic capabilities.
“I am excited to work across academic and industry ecosystems to inspire the next generation of engineers to join us on this important journey. One which will provide the semiconductor design and manufacturing technologies that will underpin multiple growth opportunities and deliver societal benefits in net-zero, AI, and advanced communication.”
