STMicroelectronics a global leader in semiconductor solutions, has announced the expansion of its “Lab-in-Fab” (LiF) initiative in Singapore. This next phase of collaboration includes the ASTAR Institute of Microelectronics (IME), ULVAC, the ASTAR Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), and the National University of Singapore (NUS). The initiative is aimed at advancing the development of piezoelectric micro-electro-mechanical systems (piezoMEMS) and further strengthening Singapore’s semiconductor innovation capabilities.
This expanded collaboration focuses on the development of sustainable, lead-free piezoelectric materials, contributing to the creation of miniaturized, energy-efficient, and cost-effective sensors and actuators. The facility will support a wide range of stakeholders, including academic institutions, startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and multinational corporations. It will provide access to a full manufacturing line to accelerate the commercialization of piezoMEMS-based devices such as piezoelectric micromachined ultrasound transducers (PMUTs), compact speakers for wearable electronics, and camera autofocus actuators for smartphones.
The success of the original Lab-in-Fab, established in 2020 to develop thin-film lead zirconate titanate (PZT) using physical vapor deposition, paved the way for this expansion. The new phase aims to further reduce the environmental impact of piezoelectric technologies while enabling next-generation applications through advanced material integration, toolset innovations, and enhanced manufacturing processes.
PiezoMEMS is a key research and development priority under Singapore’s Research, Innovation, and Enterprise 2025 (RIE2025) plan. Alongside other focus areas—such as heterogeneous integration in advanced packaging, wide-bandgap semiconductors (e.g., Silicon Carbide and Gallium Nitride), millimeter-wave RF technologies, and photonics—this initiative supports Singapore’s vision of becoming a global leader in semiconductor innovation and manufacturing.
The Lab-in-Fab project is integral to Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem, fostering collaborations with product developers, manufacturers, and research institutions. In addition to offering Multi-Project Wafer services, the initiative supports talent development through internships and doctoral research opportunities. STMicroelectronics, which has played a central role in the MEMS sector for over two decades, continues to invest in Singapore’s industrial capabilities through its integrated design and manufacturing model. The Lab-in-Fab complements its existing operations at the Ang Mo Kio campus and reinforces its long-term commitment to Singapore’s semiconductor industry.
