Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics IAF
On May 6, 2025, Fraunhofer IAF welcomed two representatives from United Monolithic Semiconductors (UMS) for a visit in Freiburg: Vincent Lebre, who has been the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at UMS since March 2025, and Dr. Klaus Beilenhoff, who is responsible for Strategy and Innovation. The aim of the meeting was not only to provide Vincent Lebre with insights into the research activities of Fraunhofer IAF but also to discuss existing and future collaboration.
“There are great expectations on the European semiconductor industry. Meeting these expectations can only be achieved through strong partnerships. Therefore, I am very pleased about the visit from UMS, one of the most significant European semiconductor companies. The exchange with Vincent Lebre and Klaus Beilenhoff was not only extremely constructive but also opened new perspectives for our collaboration. UMS has been and continues to be a central partner of Fraunhofer IAF, and we look forward to continuing this successful cooperation,” emphasizes Dr. Patricie Merkert, Director of Fraunhofer IAF.
UMS and Fraunhofer IAF have a long-standing partnership. Numerous joint projects have achieved technological milestones, consolidated competencies, and initiated innovative solutions. During the visit, the guests also had the opportunity to learn about the technical infrastructure of the institute – including the cleanroom and laboratories for high-frequency characterization.
For Vincent Lebre, who previously led the ASIC/FPGA group at Thales Alenia Space, this was his first visit to Fraunhofer IAF. Dr. Klaus Beilenhoff has been a long-time member of the advisory board.
About United Monolithic Semiconductors
UMS is a leading European semiconductor company specializing in high-frequency and millimeter-wave components. The company develops and produces integrated circuits (MMICs) for demanding applications in defense, aerospace, telecommunications, automotive radar, and industrial sensing.