On Monday 7 July 2025, the eFutures Network hosted the online launch of its new report, Semiconductor R&D: The UK Academic Landscape — the most comprehensive analysis to date of the UK’s academic strengths, capabilities, and opportunities in semiconductor research and innovation.
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The event brought together researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to reflect on the findings of this landmark study, which draws on insights from over 800 experts who collectively contributed more than 7,000 hours of input. The report offers clear, evidence-based recommendations to help shape the future direction of the UK semiconductor ecosystem.
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The session opened with remarks from Glenn Goodall, Head of the ICT Theme at Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, who highlighted the strategic importance of semiconductors to the UK’s research and innovation landscape.
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The report’s key findings and recommendations were then presented by Roger Woods from Queen’s University Belfast, outlining where the UK’s academic strengths lie and how these can be better connected to industry, policy, and future investment.
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A panel discussion followed, chaired by EPSRC, offering industry perspectives on how the report’s recommendations could be translated into action. The panel featured:
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Wyn Meredith, Managing Director of Compound Semiconductor Centre, Chair of CSconnected and Vice Chair of the Advisory Board to the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Semiconductors
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Elizabeth Patterson, Senior Policy and Programme Manager, Seagate Technology
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Richard Price, CTO and Co-Founder, Pragmatic Semiconductor
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Sean Redmond, Director, Silicon Catalyst UK
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Natasha Conway, Research Director, Paragraf–
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Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between academia and industry, supporting translation and scale-up, and ensuring the UK remains globally competitive in semiconductor research and innovation.
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The launch marked an important milestone for the eFutures Network and provided a timely platform for informed dialogue on the future of semiconductors in the UK. We thank all speakers and attendees for contributing to a valuable and engaging discussion.
