Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) has given the go-ahead for a new research institute in the field of quantum and photonics: the Eindhoven Hendrik Casimir Institute. This institute was opened by Robbert Dijkgraaf, director of the Institute of Advanced Study in Princeton, and Gerda Casimir, daughter of Hendrik Casimir. High-tech company ASML, one of TU/e's main partners, donated a set of high-tech machines worth 3.5 million euros to the new institute to congratulate the university on its 65th anniversary.
With the exponential growth of our information society, the end of traditional economies of scale in communication and computing is approaching. To continue the trend in computing power and energy-efficient communication, emerging photonics and quantum technologies are important avenues to be explored. Both technologies are already world-class in Eindhoven, as evidenced by recent multi-million dollar funds. Eindhoven's Hendrik Casimir Institute (EHCI) will cleverly "intertwine" the two technology areas to create synergy: the superfast light-driven communication technology of photonics and the stunning computational magic of quantum technology.
Hendrik Casimir
Dutch physicist Hendrik Casimir (1909-2000) is best known for his work on superconductivity and quantum physics, particularly the Casimir effect. He was also a leader in the high-tech industry for decades as director of the renowned Philips Physical Laboratory. He defined principles for research management that still apply today.
Donations from ASML
ASML, the world's largest supplier to the semiconductor industry, had a big surprise for TU/e, which today celebrated its 65th opening of the academic year. The company donated to the university a set of high-tech nanotechnology machines and services for the new institute and for the student labs, with a total value of 3.5M euros.
"We are extremely grateful to ASML for these wonderful gifts," responded TU/e President Robert-Jan Smits. "These gifts underscore TU/e's exceptionally good relationship with ASML and with the business community in the Brainport Eindhoven region."
"We hope this equipment will enable TU/e researchers and students to push the boundaries of knowledge, make scientific breakthroughs and thus contribute to a better future. Because that is the power of technology. And we hope that students at TU/e will gain even more high-tech knowledge," said Frank Schuurmans, Vice-President Research at ASML, who symbolically handed over the gifts with an IC production wafer.
Learn more about the Eindhoven Hendrik Casimir Institute:
