Leti, an institute of CEA Tech, and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) today announced an agreement to jointly explore a variety of technologies, including monolithic 3D, neuromorphic architectures, non-volatile 3D memory, spintronics and ultra-low power semiconductors.

The five-year joint project also will focus on creating a broad network to foster international collaboration on ultra-low power semiconductors, which both institutes agree will be required to power the ever-increasing spread of digital devices and the Internet of Things.

“Like Leti, KIST has helped set the standards for government-supported research institutes for 50 years,” said Leti CEO Marie Semeria. “This agreement reflects that we have identified numerous vital technology fields that must be developed to make industry more productive, companies more innovative and society more responsive to people in many aspects of their lives.”

“Post-Silicon Semiconductor Institute (PSI) of KIST is playing a key role in semiconductor R&D in Korea. With this agreement, KIST and Leti will strengthen the collaborative relationship to achieve global leadership in the field of semiconductors.” said KIST president Byung Gwon LEE.

Leti partners with large industrials, SMEs and startups to tailor advanced solutions that strengthen their competitive positions. It has launched 59 startups. Its 8,500m² of new-generation cleanroom space feature 200mm and 300mm wafer processing of micro and nano solutions for applications ranging from space to smart devices. With a staff of more than 1,900, Leti is based in Grenoble, France, and has offices in Silicon Valley, Calif., and Tokyo.

KIST is a multi-disciplinary research institute located in Seoul, S. Korea. Founded in 1966, it is the first multi-disciplinary scientific research institute in Korea and has contributed significantly to the economic development of the country, particularly during the years of accelerated growth in the 1970s and 1980s.