A*STAR And GlobalFoundries Expand Silicon Photonics Research In Singapore
Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and semiconductor manufacturer GlobalFoundries (GF) have agreed to deepen collaboration on silicon photonics research, a technology increasingly important for high‑performance artificial intelligence systems. Under a new Master Research Collaboration Agreement (MRCA), the partners will work to advance photonics technologies that enable faster and more energy‑efficient data transfer. Details of the initiative were outlined in an official announcement from A*STAR, which highlights Singapore’s broader strategy to strengthen semiconductor research and innovation.
The collaboration builds on nearly two decades of investment in photonics research in Singapore. Silicon photonics combines optical and semiconductor technologies to move data at extremely high speeds while reducing energy consumption, making it a key enabling technology for data‑intensive applications such as AI and advanced computing.
Expanding Singapore’s Silicon Photonics Capabilities
A*STAR’s Institute of Microelectronics (IME) launched Singapore’s silicon photonics research and development programme in 2007. This work was expanded in 2015 when the National Research Foundation supported the Lux Photonics Consortium, bringing together industry, academia and research institutions to accelerate innovation in photonics.
The institute’s research capabilities also contributed to the creation of Advanced Micro Foundry (AMF) in 2017, a spin‑off that has become an important participant in the global photonics ecosystem. GlobalFoundries’ acquisition of AMF marks the next stage in scaling these technologies for international markets.
Supporting AI Infrastructure And Semiconductor Innovation
The MRCA reflects broader national efforts to expand semiconductor research linked to artificial intelligence and high‑performance computing. Singapore has committed more than S$1 billion to semiconductor R&D and translation activities, with focus areas including silicon photonics, advanced packaging, piezo‑MEMS, RF Gallium Nitride, flat optics and silicon carbide.
These investments complement wider initiatives to strengthen the country’s position in advanced technology sectors, including programmes highlighted in Singapore’s next‑generation semiconductor innovation efforts and broader policies aimed at sustaining the nation’s research and innovation ecosystem. Together, these measures seek to reinforce Singapore’s role as a trusted and resilient node in global semiconductor supply chains.
The collaboration also aligns with national priorities to strengthen emerging technology capabilities, similar to initiatives advancing AI and robotics research such as AI‑focused robotics research programmes in Singapore. High‑speed data transfer technologies such as silicon photonics are increasingly important to support the computing infrastructure required for these developments.
Industry And Government Perspectives
“Impactful innovation is about how ideas take shape in A*STAR’s labs, and scale to meet real industry needs. Our collaboration with GF builds on nearly two decades of national investment and capability development. It reflects strong confidence in Singapore’s translational R&D strengths. We look forward to pushing the frontiers of silicon photonics with GF and delivering new economic opportunities for Singapore,” — Mr Beh Kian Teik, Chief Executive Officer, A*STAR
“The new MRCA, along with our acquisition of AMF, both underscore GF’s commitment to advancing our innovation roadmap and leadership in the area of silicon photonics,” — Mr Gregg Bartlett, Chief Technology Officer, GlobalFoundries
According to Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB), GlobalFoundries plays a significant role in the country’s semiconductor sector through manufacturing operations, research activities and regional headquarters functions. The agency noted that collaboration between government, research institutions and industry partners is central to supporting the sector’s continued growth.
