Speech by the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology, Demetris Skourides 19th International Conference on PhD Research in Microelectronics and Electronics 10 June 2024

19/06/2024

Speech by the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology, Demetris Skourides

19th International Conference on PhD Research in Microelectronics and Electronics

10 June 2024

Dear participants, speakers, and esteemed guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great honour to be here with you at the 19th International Conference on PhD Research in Microelectronics and Electronics.

This prestigious event has long been an inspiration for young researchers, and a cornerstone for advancing innovation in the field of microelectronics and electronics, providing an invaluable platform for PhD students and post-doctoral researchers to present their pioneering work, network with industry experts, and engage with peers from around the globe. As Chris Miller argues in his book “Chip War”, microelectronics are essential for the contemporary world and Microchips are the new oil; the crucial resource that supports everything from defence systems to household devices. The European Chip Act entered into force on 21 September 2023, and aims to strengthen the competitiveness of the European Union in the areas of chip manufacturing and design.

Therefore, as the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Tehcnology of the Republic of Cyprus, Ι would like to sincerely congratulate the organisers for this impactful initiative, which is a testament to the strides that our country’s academic and research community has made over the past few years. Let me also welcome all the participants and esteemed fellow speakers, particularly those coming from abroad, exclusively for the event. Cyprus is proud to host this conference, underscoring our commitment to become a regional research, innovation and technology hub.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Cyprus is home to a vibrant R&I ecosystem, supported by initiatives from both the government and private sector. Our country boasts twelve universities, private and public research institutes, as well as a dynamic community of 2,500 researchers, 4,000 entrepreneurially- minded individuals and over 400 start-ups and innovative businesses, that have the potential to create a significant impact for our country. Furthermore, seven Centers of Excellence play a pivotal role in driving research in fields such as marine and maritime science, Design, Communication, cultural heritage, health and rare genetic diseases, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), monitoring control and security of Critical Infrastructure , artificial intelligence, renewable intelligent energy solutions, climate and environmental research and Earth Observation and Space Technologies.

As per the microelectronics and electronics sector, the University of Cyprus has made a significant step forward, adding specialized courses on analogue and digital design as part of the undergraduate Electrical and Computer Engineering curriculum. It also uses well-known industry CAD tools and offers advanced PhD degrees in this field.

Additionally, the local ecosystem holds a high absorption rate of R&I funds from EU funding programs. In fact, in this regard, the following projects are notable.

The Pact for Skills aims to provide upskilling and reskilling opportunities in the microelectronics sector for more than 250,000 people, in over five years.
The METIS project established a comprehensive Sector Skills Strategy to align talent supply with industry demand through modernized occupational profiles and innovative, adaptable vocational education and training curricula.
EcoVEM fosters vocational excellence in microelectronics, to tackle challenges of digitalization, artificial intelligence, green technologies, gender equality, and migrant integration.

Esteemed guests,

The State’s commitment to support Research & Innovation is reflected in the National Research and Innovation Strategy 2024-2026. Along with the reforms and investments as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, and the long-term strategy of “Vision 2035”, the aim for the island is to become a beacon of research and innovation, and one of the best places to live, work, and invest in.

In this framework, Cyprus’ Research and Innovation Foundation, paves the way towards a thriving economy, as the national agency responsible for the promotion of research, technological development and innovation. The Foundation launched an array of funding programmes that cater to all stages of the entrepreneurial/intrapreneurial journey and a portfolio of knowledge-transfer and innovation support services – such as the Central Knowledge Transfer Office, and the Innovation Factory – that are available free of charge to the entire R&I ecosystem. Additionally, to further enhance the participation and collaboration of Cypriot research organizations and foreign organizations in the «Key Digital Technologies/Chips JU» European Partnership, RIF has launched since 2022 specific calls to encourage participation in transnational research and development projects in the Electronic Components and Systems area with an allocated budget of 3m.

Specifically, up to now, the Foundation has allocated €149.5 million to members of the ecosystem, funding a total of 958 projects through its RESTART National Funding Programmes.

Moreover, Cyprus has established itself as a premier destination for innovation, largely attributed to an advantageous IP-based income scheme, which provides an 80% exemption on profits derived from the use of intangible assets, effectively reducing the tax rate to an impressively low 2.5%. The tax regime is among the most competitive in Europe, making Cyprus an attractive location for companies to develop, manage, and exploit their intellectual property.

Also, Cyprus’ government provides significant support to draw and retain top-quality talent in our country. For example, the State helps companies in hiring and relocating qualified staff to work in the island, as well as providing specific tax reductions to skilled professionals.

Our vision for Cyprus extends beyond its national borders, embracing a global perspective. We are dedicated to enhancing our presence in international organizations and fostering multilateral cooperation. Our strategic location and strong ties with neighbouring countries position us as a bridge between Europe and the Middle East, enabling us to play a central role in regional and global initiatives.

In conclusion, I encourage all participants to take full advantage of the opportunities presented at this conference. Engage with your peers, challenge your ideas, and explore new frontiers in your research. Cyprus is committed to supporting your journey and to creating an environment where innovation can flourish. Together, we can build a future driven by scientific excellence and technological innovation.

Thank you.