Interview with Anna Müller: The future of semiconductor technology

Anna Müller, Junior Group Leader, conducts intensive research at the interface of microbiology and semiconductor technology. In this interview, she shares her insights into current developments and future trends in semiconductor research.

Question: Ms Müller, which current advances in semiconductor technology do you consider to be particularly groundbreaking?

Answer: One significant advance is the development of high-NA-EUV lithography. This technology makes it possible to create even finer structures on microchips, which leads to more powerful and energy-efficient processors. Companies such as ZEISS are working intensively on implementing this technology, which is set to go into series production from 2025.

SourceZeiss

Question: How are these developments affecting the electronics industry?

Answer: The ongoing miniaturisation and increased efficiency of semiconductors enable more powerful devices with lower energy consumption. This is crucial for applications such as artificial intelligence, autonomous driving and the Internet of Things, which rely on fast and efficient data processing.

Question: What challenges do you see in semiconductor research?

Answer: One of the biggest challenges is overcoming the physical limits of further miniaturisation. In addition, the production of modern semiconductor technologies requires considerable investment and highly specialised skilled workers. Europe must catch up here in order to remain technologically sovereign.

SourceDeloitte

Question: How do you see the future of semiconductor technology?

Answer: I am optimistic that significant progress will continue to be made through interdisciplinary research and international collaboration. New materials and manufacturing techniques could further increase the performance of semiconductors and lead to innovative applications that we cannot yet imagine.

Question: What role does your research play in this context?

Answer: My work focusses on the investigation of interactions between microbial processes and semiconductor materials. A better understanding of these mechanisms could lead to new approaches in semiconductor manufacturing, especially in the field of biotechnology and the development of more environmentally friendly production methods.

Question: What advice do you have for young scientists who want to get into semiconductor research?

Answer: Be curious and open to interdisciplinary approaches. Semiconductor research requires knowledge of physics, chemistry, materials science and engineering. Network with experts from different fields and stay informed about the latest developments.

We would like to thank Anna Müller for this informative interview and her valuable insights into the future of semiconductor technology.