Tampere University shapes chip future

The SiPFAB project (System-in-Package Fabrication) at Tampere University is building a state-of-the-art semiconductor integration and packaging pilot line in a joint European effort.

With 40 million euros in funding from the EU and Business Finland, the initiative offers outstanding career opportunities.

“The project is not about traditional university research, but product and process development. The focus is on commercialization, with companies actively involved in development and testing”, Project Director Tuomas Lahtinen explains.

Europe aims to become a global leader in semiconductors, drive new technological innovations, and grow production. The EU Chips Act is driving this vision forward, and one of its most exciting investments is already underway in Tampere. 

Currently the project seeks two main types of talent: professionals with industry experience and process development skills, and specialists in simulation tools.

“The chip process has three stages: first refining material into wafers, then creating devices – the chip itself – followed by packaging, which enables the chip to function. A chip is like a high-performance engine, and packaging is the chassis, wheels, and suspension that allow it to be used. We focus on this integration and packaging.”

Specialising in this new technology can secure career opportunities in the future.

“You can work at the forefront of technology and be part of creating something new. There will be strong demand for such experts, opening career paths across Europe.”

The semiconductor ecosystem in Finland is growing, with strong collaboration between academia and industry.  Many international researchers are founding startups in Finland.

“There are concrete opportunities here. Ambitious, skilled people are eagerly recruited straight from universities to companies,” Lahtinen points out.

Finland is on its way to become a major hub for semiconductor expertise. Lahtinen sees echoes of Nokia’s golden years: fresh energy, talent, and ambition.

The country already punches above its weight in quantum computing, thanks to the long-term work of Aalto University and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland.

Tampere’s SiPFAB project is relevant already in near future.

Finland offers international professionals’ academic freedom, a safe and open society, and a supportive work culture. The broader EU environment also plays a role: fair treatment, strong environmental considerations, and clear rules for public R&D funding.

“In today’s world, this matters. Finland has a functioning, secure society where human rights are respected. Here, creative, entrepreneurial people are given more freedom,” Lahtinen notes.

In Finland, innovation begins early.

“Already in schools, children are encouraged to think for themselves rather than memorize. In technology, that creates excellent conditions for innovation,” Lahtinen says.

Language isn’t a barrier either, since tech companies operate in English.

Lahtinen himself grew up in Qatar and studied at Imperial College London. He returned to Finland for the same reason that attracts many experts: quality of life.

“I wanted a calmer life. Finland allows you to do what you want freely, while families thrive and schools are good,” he says.

Tampere University also supports families through its Hidden Gems program, which helps spouses find work in their own fields.

“It’s a great example of the way we think. We want people to stay – and that means ensuring their families feel at home too.”