€8.46 Million Semiconductor Research Centre Opens at ATU

A new research facility dedicated to semiconductor technology has officially opened at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) in Letterkenny, Ireland. The **€8.46 million Semiconductor Photonics Education and Research Centre** (SPEAR) aims to establish the region as a leading hub for innovation in semiconductor and photonics technologies.

The SPEAR project is funded by **PEACEPLUS**, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It will be spearheaded by ATU’s **WiSAR Lab** in collaboration with **Ulster University**, the **Tyndall National Institute** at University College Cork, and **Seagate Technology** in Derry.

Officials believe that this initiative will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Northwest region, aligning with the **EU Chips Act** and Ireland’s **Smart Specialisation Strategy**. It is designed to integrate advanced technology into the local economy while fostering collaboration across borders.

Key Components of the SPEAR Centre

The SPEAR Centre will focus on three main areas over the coming years. Firstly, it will establish a **Doctoral College** aimed at training the next generation of PhD researchers in fields such as photonics, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor technologies.

Secondly, an **Innovation Fund** will support research and development efforts for at least nine regional small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enabling them to adopt cutting-edge technologies. Lastly, a **Strategic Engagement Programme** will facilitate partnerships among academia, industry, and policymakers, while also raising public awareness about the potential of advanced technologies.

The launch event brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including academic experts, industry representatives, and government officials. **Peter Burke TD**, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, highlighted the significance of the SPEAR Centre. He stated, “This initiative will not only drive regional economic growth but also ensure that SMEs and researchers are at the forefront of global technological development.”

**Dr. Caoimhe Archibald MLA**, Economy Minister, also expressed enthusiasm for the project. “Today’s launch moves us a step closer to creating a global centre of excellence for semiconductor photonics in the North West,” she noted. “This investment will enhance the region’s attractiveness to inward investment, supporting the creation of more new, good jobs.”

Impact on the Region

**Gina McIntyre**, Chief Executive of SEUPB, emphasized the transformative potential of the SPEAR project. She remarked, “This PEACEPLUS project is designed to transform the North West through cutting-edge research, innovation, and enterprise development.” McIntyre added that the initiative represents a commitment not only to technology and education but also to the people and communities in the cross-border region.

**Dr. Orla Flynn**, President of Atlantic Technological University, described SPEAR as a significant investment in research infrastructure. “By embedding deep technology expertise into the Northwest, SPEAR will support enterprise growth, create high-value jobs, and build resilience in the face of global challenges,” she stated.

The SPEAR Centre is positioned to act as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, workforce upskilling, and peacebuilding across border regions. By leveraging the collective expertise of its partners and the investment provided through PEACEPLUS, the centre aims to deliver tangible benefits to both the economy and society in the Northwest.

PEACEPLUS is a funding partnership involving the **European Union**, the **Government of the United Kingdom**, the **Government of Ireland**, and the **Northern Ireland Executive**, reflecting a commitment to regional collaboration and development.