The challenge for the microelectronics industry is to increase their markets by finding new ways of adding value to products. In many cases, this is no longer achieved by aggressively pursuing Moore's law to its inevitable conclusion. New technologies compatible with mainstream microelectronics fabrication methods must be explored and developed. This new research & development environment poses exciting new challenges for research centres active in information and communication technologies (ICT). ICT research centres must explore new micro and nanotechnologies, photonics, and increasingly, methods and applications from the life sciences, to remain competitive on a world stage.

In this presentation, strategies for developing a research portfolio from an increasingly diverse research landscape are given. Specific examples of research collaborations with industrial partners through European Union research programmes are given to highlight how strategic research goals can be achieved in collaboration with industry. For advanced technology development, the ability of research centres to contribute through spin out companies and technology licensing are outlined. Specific examples for photonics and nanotechnology are given.