Inside a World-Class Semiconductor Research Ecosystem

The semiconductor industry does not grow through technology alone.

It also depends on research institutions, universities, industry and government working together to move ideas from fundamental research into real products and real economic impact.

On 19 June 2026, MAHANAKORN joined a Thai delegation visiting imec in Belgium, one of the world’s leading research centres in microelectronics and semiconductor technology. The visit focused on understanding how imec connects advanced research, technology development and industry collaboration within one innovation ecosystem.

From Research to Real Industry

imec works across areas including microchips, artificial intelligence, advanced electronics, quantum technology and future digital systems, collaborating with technology companies and universities around the world.

During the visit, the delegation studied how imec develops innovation across the full technology journey:

That journey matters because a breakthrough in the laboratory is only the beginning.

For technology to create real impact, it must eventually be engineered, tested, scaled and connected with industries capable of bringing it into the world.

Why the Ecosystem Matters

The visit also included imec’s advanced research infrastructure and laboratories, where semiconductor technologies are developed from early-stage research through to applications connected with industry.

What stands out is not simply the scale of the facilities.

It is the connection between knowledge, people and industry.

Researchers generate new ideas.

Engineers turn them into working technologies.

Universities develop the people who will continue building them.

Industry brings those technologies to scale.

For students preparing for careers in advanced technology, understanding that ecosystem can be just as important as understanding the technology itself.

Building Talent for the Semiconductor Future

MAHANAKORN also presented its role in developing semiconductor talent through its National Semiconductor Training Center, as Thailand works to strengthen its capabilities in advanced electronics and future industries.

The visit created an opportunity to exchange ideas around workforce development, research training and ways universities can connect technical education more closely with global technology ecosystems.

For students, that means engineering education should not stop at theory.

It should help them understand how their skills can connect with research, industry and technologies being developed around the world.

Where Could You Take It Next?

Students interested in semiconductor technology and advanced electronics can begin building relevant foundations through:

Communication & Electronics Engineering
Develop knowledge in electronics, circuits, communication systems and technologies connected with advanced electronics and semiconductor applications.

Explore Communication & Electronics Engineering →

Computer & AI Engineering
Build foundations in computing, artificial intelligence and data — increasingly important across intelligent devices, automation and future semiconductor systems.

Explore Computer & AI Engineering →

Mechanical Engineering
Explore engineering systems, automation and advanced manufacturing technologies that support high-tech industries.

Explore Mechanical Engineering →

The future of semiconductor technology is built by people who can connect research, engineering and industry.