Founded in 2019 by Armstrong Murira and Nardin Nakhla, Simmunome stands out as a pioneering Canadian techbio startup. While traditional biotech companies focus on developing therapeutics, Simmunome takes a different approach: applying advanced technology to understand biological processes. This distinction places Simmunome at the forefront of transforming drug development through computational methods.Simmunome's tech bio approach bridges the gap between data and actionable insights, offering a unique solution to accelerate drug development. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships, the company is poised to make a significant impact on global healthcare, redefining how the industry approaches research, development, and patient outcomes.The Origins and Vision of SimmunomeThe idea behind Simmunome began with Armstrong Murira's extensive background in molecular biology and experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Noticing the inefficiencies in clinical research and business analytics, Murira envisioned a future where computational biology could overcome these limitations. "How can we represent complex biological systems computationally to run virtual experiments?" Murira questioned. This approach aimed to save time, reduce costs, and increase the precision of pharmaceutical research. However, the idea was ahead of its time in the early 2010s, when computational power, data access, and AI algorithms were still nascent.By 2019, advancements in these key areas aligned, enabling Murira to co-found Simmunome with Nakhla, a PhD graduate in neuroscience from McGill University. Nakhla brought expertise in machine learning and its application to brain function and visual perception—knowledge that seamlessly connected to the development of biologically accurate computational models.A Tech Bio Approach: From Data to DiscoverySimmunome identifies itself as a techbio rather than a biotech company, reflecting its commitment to using technology to analyze biological data without directly developing therapeutics. The company's platform harnesses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, relying on large volumes of de-identified data from public sources and client-provided datasets. This innovative use of computational tools allows Simmunome to simulate biological processes and predict disease mechanisms, helping pharmaceutical and biotech clients make informed decisions before entering costly clinical trials.One significant advantage of Simmunome's approach is its hybrid data integration. Unlike some tech giants entering the life sciences that focus solely on big data, Simmunome emphasizes data quality and mechanistic representation. "Biology has its own set of rules," a representative explained, "and we combine big data with a mechanistic approach that models these biological rules, resulting in more generalizable and accurate predictions."The Platform's Key ApplicationsSimmunome's platform benefits clients by streamlining multiple phases of drug research:Understanding Disease Mechanisms: By modeling diseases and their underlying pathways, Simmunome helps researchers identify why certain conditions occur, providing insights into dysregulation and potential targets.Target Identification and Validation: Clients can use Simmunome's simulations to pinpoint and confirm potential therapeutic targets, reducing reliance on traditional animal models, which often fail to translate effectively to human biology.Biomarker Discovery and Diagnostics: The platform enables the identification of biomarkers and signals that indicate how specific patient subpopulations will respond to treatments, supporting the development of companion diagnostics.Addressing Industry ChallengesThe journey of building such a platform is not without challenges. Simmunome highlights three main hurdles: data quantity, data quality, and methodological approaches. While a minimum quantity of data is essential, the company underscores that quality often outweighs sheer volume. The hybrid approach taken by Simmunome—training models on general biological mechanisms before layering patient-specific data—avoids biases that can limit predictive accuracy and ensures that results are applicable across broader scenarios.Looking to Taiwan for Growth and CollaborationSimmunome's aspirations extend beyond North America. The company recognizes Taiwan's strengths in data infrastructure, precision medicine, and government-supported innovation as critical assets for its expansion. Taiwan's mature electronic health records systems, extensive biobank resources, and skilled talent pool make it an ideal partner for collaboration. "We're looking for opportunities to conduct clinical validations in Asia, and Taiwan could serve as a strategic stepping stone for entering other regional markets like Korea and Japan," Tanya Tolomeo, Simmunome Head of Business Development stated.Future Goals: Scaling and Democratizing AISimmunome recently completed a CAD 2 million pre-seed round and is preparing for an $8 million seed round in 2025 to fuel its next phase of growth. The funding will support team expansion, the development of new disease models beyond the current nine focused on oncology and neurodegenerative conditions, and new platform features such as drug safety prediction and repurposing tools."Why not develop our own drugs?" is a question many people posed to the company. Their answer underscores their mission to democratize technology. "Developing drugs would require an entirely different core competency and significant capital. More importantly, we want to help as many companies as possible create effective treatments faster, without bias. That's how we drive forward patient care and research."Simmunome CTO and co-founder Nardin Nakhla. Credit: Company

SK Hynix Inc. (or "the company", www.skhynix.com) announced today that it has started mass production of the world's first triple-level cell*-based 321-high 4D NAND Flash with 1Tb capacity.*NAND Flash products are categorized into single-, multi-, triple-, quadruple-, and penta-level cells, depending on the number of information in the format of bit unit stored in a cell. A bigger number of information stored means more data can be stored in the same space.Following its previous record as the industry's first provider of the world's highest 238-layer NAND since June last year, SK Hynix has become the world's first supplier of NAND with more than 300 layers by finding a technological breakthrough for stacking. The company plans to provide the 321-high products to customers from the first half of next year.Stacking more than 300 layers came into reality as the company successfully adopted the "3 plugs"** process technology. Known for its excellent production efficiency, the process electrically connects three plugs through an optimized follow-up process after three times of plug processes are finished. For the process, SK Hynix developed a low-stress*** material, while introducing the technology that automatically corrects alignments among the plugs.With the adoption of the same development platform from the 238-high NAND on the 321-high product, the company could also improve productivity by 59%, compared with the previous generation, by minimizing any impacts from a process switch.** Plug: a vertical hole through layers of substrates aimed at creating cells at once*** Low Stress: Preventing wafer warpage by changing the material into the plugsThe latest product comes with an improvement of 12% in data transfer speed and 13% in reading performance, compared with the previous generation. It also enhances data reading power efficiency by more than 10%.SK Hynix plans to steadily expand the use of the 321-high products by providing them to the nascent AI applications, which require low power and high performance.Jungdal Choi, Head of NAND Development at SK Hynix, said that the latest development brings the company a step closer to the leadership of the AI storage market represented by SSD for AI data centers and on-device AI. "SK Hynix is on track to advancing to the Full Stack AI Memory Provider by adding a perfect portfolio in the ultra-high performance NAND space on top of the DRAM business led by HBM."About SK Hynix Inc.SK hynix Inc., headquartered in Korea, is the world's top-tier semiconductor supplier offering Dynamic Random Access Memory chips ("DRAM"), flash memory chips ("NAND flash"), and CMOS Image Sensors ("CIS") for a wide range of distinguished customers globally. The Company's shares are traded on the Korean Exchange, and the Global Depository shares are listed on the Luxemburg Stock Exchange. Further information about SK Hynix is available at www.skhynix.com and news.skhynix.com.SK Hynix’s 321-high NAND. Credit: SK Hynix

In 2010, Azadeh Dastmalchi's journey toward transforming healthcare began with a personal challenge. Her father's aversion to traditional blood pressure cuffs inspired her to explore alternative solutions. This spark ignited a decade-long pursuit during her master's and PhD studies at the University of Ottawa, where she developed a groundbreaking method for measuring blood pressure using optical sensors and artificial neural networks.By 2019, Dastmalchi had transformed her academic research into a business venture, founding VitalTracer, a Canadian startup focused on creating advanced medical devices. Initially centered on a smartwatch, the company faced challenges convincing investors of its potential in a market dominated by tech giants like Apple and Fitbit. This skepticism, coupled with concerns about the accuracy of wrist-based measurements, led to a pivotal shift: VitalTracer refocused its efforts on a chest-mounted smart patch. The patch offered greater reliability and garnered trust from medical professionals, investors, and regulatory bodies alike.Redefining the Pediatric Healthcare MarketWhile the senior care market seemed a natural starting point, Dastmalchi's team quickly realized it was fraught with logistical barriers, particularly in Canada's public healthcare system. Instead, they pivoted to pediatric care, addressing a critical gap in monitoring technology designed specifically for children.Unlike competitors who focus on adult or newborn patients, VitalTracer's solution targets children aged 1 to 18. Its smart patch not only delivers highly accurate readings but also offers a cost-effective alternative to disposable devices, reducing costs from $100 per day to just $1. This innovation also aligns with environmental sustainability goals, as its reusable and rechargeable design minimizes waste.Overcoming Regulatory and Funding ChallengesVitalTracer's journey hasn't been without hurdles. Securing FDA clearance—a critical milestone for market entry—has required rigorous clinical trials, which the company is currently conducting in Montreal. Fortunately, VitalTracer has leveraged Quebec's robust ecosystem of government grants to sustain its research and development efforts.Nicknamed the "queen of grants," Dastmalchi has skillfully navigated non-dilutive funding opportunities to support the company's growth. These grants, often matched with private investments, have provided the financial stability needed to reach this stage. Now, the company is preparing for its first pre-seed funding round to scale its operations and expand its market presence.Diversity at the Core of InnovationA key differentiator for VitalTracer lies in its commitment to diversity. Recognizing the limitations of existing medical technologies—often calibrated on homogenous populations—VitalTracer has prioritized inclusivity in its product development. The company's AI algorithms are designed to deliver accurate results across different skin tones and demographics, addressing racial biases that have historically plagued healthcare devices.This focus has driven the company to seek partnerships in diverse regions, including the Middle East and Asia, where their technology can be further refined and validated for global applications.A Vision for Global HealthcareLooking ahead, VitalTracer is setting its sights beyond North America. While FDA approval remains a priority, the company is targeting the Middle East, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea as its primary markets. These regions offer unique growth opportunities, with underserved populations and an openness to adopting innovative healthcare solutions.For Dastmalchi, the mission is deeply personal and humanitarian. "I dream of creating a trusted, world-class medical device that saves lives and offers peace of mind to patients and families," she says. Her vision extends beyond commercial success, focusing on improving healthcare equity worldwide, particularly in Africa, which is often overlooked by traditional medical technology companies. She hopes to find like-minded investors and partners and aims to triple the size of the team after the pre-seed round of fundraising. She will focus on the Middle East market for the next 2-3 years.VitalTracer is planning to participate in the Healthcare+ Expo from December 5-8 at the Nankang Exhibition Center in Taiwan.

Bronwyn Bridges, CEO of PragmaClin Research Inc., began her academic journey in biology before transitioning to pharmacology. Driven by a deep interest in brain health, Bridges focused on Parkinson's Disease.During her research, which evolved from a master's thesis into a PhD, she met Gord Genge, who had been recently diagnosed with Parkinson's. Gord's experience—marked by a one-to-two-year wait for a neurology appointment and a diagnostic process involving subjective assessments—highlighted the urgent need for better tools. Inspired to address this gap, Bridges and Genge co-founded PragmaClin, with the goal of developing technology for objective neurological assessments.One of PragmaClin's primary differentiators is its non-wearable technology. Unlike traditional sensor-based systems that require a physical attachment, PragmaClin uses cameras and AI to capture and analyze motor parameters. "Our system doesn't require anything to be worn, which significantly enhances usability, especially for patients struggling with fine motor skills," Bridges explained. "This ease of use fosters greater adoption among patients and clinicians alike and offers real-time scoring, eliminating the need to send data for re-evaluation."PragmaClin's business model adapts to various settings. In rural clinics, where patients are far from urban centers and only have access to primary care, the technology can streamline assessments, removing the need for patients to drive hours to a city clinic. In urban centers where neurology clinics are concentrated, it assists patient throughput, allowing neurologists to see more patients in a shorter period of time. PragmaClin also envisions its product playing a crucial role in clinical trials, ensuring standardized, reliable scoring to support pharmaceutical and clinical research.Q: PragmaClin's approach seems suited for long-term patient care. Do you offer follow-up services after diagnosis?"Yes, follow-up is one of our core value propositions. Many Parkinson's patients are seen just once a year—or at best, every six months. PragmaClin's system helps bridge the gap between appointments by capturing and storing objective data. We're also developing a home-based component for caregivers and patients to monitor non-motor symptoms, like sleep and cognitive function, to provide ongoing insights between specialist visits."Q: Has PragmaClin considered the Asian market?"Yes, especially given the aging population and Taiwan's openness to innovation. Taiwan offers an accessible entry point into Asia, allowing us to establish trust and showcase our value proposition on a smaller, manageable scale before expanding further. Additionally, Taiwan's reputable manufacturing and quality standards align with our goals. We're interested in building partnerships with hospitals and research institutions across Taiwan to trial our technology and prove its value in diverse healthcare settings."Bridges envisions PragmaClin making a significant impact over the next five years, initially targeting Parkinson's disease and then expanding to other movement disorders, like Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. Currently in pre-seed fundraising, PragmaClin aims to secure funding to complete clinical trials, obtain regulatory approvals, and prepare for market entry.Q: How are you approaching regulatory approval for PragmaClin's product?"FDA approval remains a priority, and we've completed initial steps to clarify requirements. We're conducting trials in Canada and Europe (initially Ireland), which will support our approval efforts in those regions. Meanwhile, we're exploring partnerships in Asia, where regulatory timelines can be shorter, compared to FDA approval which is viewed by many as a gold standard."PragmaClin currently has eight full-time staff and a few contractors. With the planned pre-seed funding, Bridges expects to expand her team, especially in clinical research, software development, and business strategy.Bronwyn Bridges will be in Taiwan on December 6th and 7th, attending the Healthcare Expo at the Nankang Exhibition Center in Taipei, where she looks forward to discussing potential collaborations.

Founded in 2012, Canadian MedTech startup Synaptive Medical has set a new standard for neurosurgical and medical imaging innovations. Driven by a mission to enhance patient outcomes, Synaptive has developed an integrated suite of advanced tools designed to revolutionize the surgical experience to execution in such technologies as pre-operative planning, surgical navigation, surgical robotics, surgical simulation, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices. Synaptive has commercialized 7 products since its inception.Holistic Patient Care Through Integrated TechnologySynaptive's cornerstone is its integrated suite that holistically supports the patient journey in a clinical setting. The process begins with Synaptive's MRI system, which captures high-resolution imaging data. This data feeds into the company's pre-operative planning software, which automatically segments neural pathways to facilitate precision surgical planning. This seamless integration allows surgeons to make better, data-driven decisions, enhancing both patient safety and surgical success.The innovation doesn't stop there. Synaptive's state-of-the-art navigation suite enables surgeons to accurately target the anatomy with guided precision, while the robotic microscope provides unparalleled 3D visualization that dynamically follows the surgeon's tools. "By bringing all of these products together, we are achieving better outcomes for patients, which is what drives us every day," explained Brett Tapson, Regional Business Director.A Legacy Rooted in Imaging ExcellenceCameron Piron, Synaptive's founder and president, has a deep background in MRI physics. His previous venture, Sentinel Medical, developed a breast coil capable of performing biopsies within an MRI scanner. This long-standing passion for imaging technology has permeated Synaptive's culture and innovations. "The MRI has always been at the forefront of our technology," the representative said. Today, Synaptive's MRI systems are deployed in both the United States and Canada, underscoring the company's commitment to cutting-edge medical imaging.Advanced Simulations: Bridging Training and Real-Life SurgeryWhile Synaptive's core focus remains on transforming surgical precision through MRI, navigation, and robotic microscopy, Synaptive developed a cranial simulation product that offers a unique, hands-on training solution to enhance these primary tools. This simulation model, which replicates the feel of real brain tissue, allows surgeons to practice delicate procedures like anastomosis and tumor resections in a controlled, cost-effective environment. Integrated with Synaptive's planning software and robotic microscope, the simulator serves as a valuable extension, equipping surgeons with realistic tactile feedback to reinforce skills developed with Synaptive's main suite. "We think this is crucial for upcoming surgeons, allowing them to practice procedures with the most accurate tactile feedback available," Brett noted.Robust Regulatory and IP StrategyA key factor in Synaptive's growth has been its strategic approach to regulatory approval. The company's team includes seasoned regulatory professionals and key opinion leaders who expedite compliance processes, resulting in multiple FDA and CE-marked products. Additionally, Synaptive's founder and team manage intellectual property internally, holding a robust portfolio of over 1,000 patents, which significantly reduces costs and safeguards innovation.Strengthening Global Ties and Future AspirationsAs Synaptive eyes expansion, the company is exploring strategic partnerships, particularly in regions known for technological talent and manufacturing expertise. "Finding technological talent is challenging, and Taiwan has shown exceptional capabilities in this area. We're excited by the potential collaborations and distribution partnerships that could enable us to bring our products to the Taiwanese market," said Cameron.Reducing Costs and Expanding ValidationSynaptive is actively seeking ways to reduce the cost of manufacturing and materials. Establishing supply chain relationships in Taiwan could play a significant role in achieving this goal. The company's plans also include expanding clinical validation to new regions to strengthen its global presence. "While we have solid clinical validation in North America and are making progress in Europe, Asia is the next frontier for us, and Taiwan could be a strategic stepping stone," Cameron explained.Future Plans: IPO and BeyondSynaptive is in the process of wrapping up its Series C round of financing, aiming for profitability by Q1 or Q2 of 2025. The company's long-term strategy includes pursuing an IPO to fuel growth and expand its reach in global markets. "I have a deep desire to see our company expand to more regions, including Taiwan," said Cameron. With the potential for acquisition and increased sales, Synaptive's journey is poised for a new chapter, driven by technological innovation and strategic partnerships.

Around five years ago, software developer Francisco Diaz-Mitoma received a series of lab and biomarker tests to benchmark his health every year. Realizing that while he was accumulating significant amounts of health data, there was no secure, centralized platform to store and analyze it, he set out to create a solution. Together with his father, Dr. Francisco Diaz Mitoma, he co-founded the Canadian startup Bowhead Health, named after the bowhead whale, known for its exceptional longevity of up to 220 years."Longevity is central to our mission, and the bowhead whale symbolizes that in the best way possible," Francisco said.With two decades of experience in developing software systems, Francisco brought deep expertise to Bowhead Health. The company creates solutions for life sciences, pharmaceutical companies, and hospitals, offering patient-facing applications on a licensing model for corporate clients. One of their standout offerings is the Bowhead Navigator, an AI-powered platform designed to match patients to clinical trials and provide evidence-based medical guidelines.Tackling Challenges in Clinical Trial MatchingOne of the significant issues in matching patients to clinical trials is the volume of data doctors need to review, including medical history, medications, past treatments, and genomic reports. For complex cases such as cancer, a doctor may need to sift through 50 to 100 pages of patient data and information on available trials, a process that can take up to a week to complete manually. Francisco highlighted how the Bowhead Navigator addresses this challenge: "Our platform securely processes both structured and unstructured data and matches patients to the most suitable clinical trials, saving doctors valuable time."Bowhead has been collaborating with patient societies in Europe and hospitals globally to validate the platform's accuracy and efficacy in reducing the administrative burden on medical professionals. The platform is particularly valuable for patients undergoing next-generation sequencing for cancer, where detailed data on genomic mutations must be compared against trial requirements. This capability represents a key step in advancing precision medicine.Expanding Globally and Targeting TaiwanBowhead Health's current pilot programs are active in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Middle East. Francisco expressed interest in extending their reach to Asia, particularly Taiwan, known for its robust technology and life sciences sectors. "We view Taiwan as a potential hub for validation studies, which could then expand to the broader Asian market," Francisco said. The company is actively seeking partnerships with early adopters, including oncologists, clinics, and hospitals that see AI as a tool to optimize workflows and enhance patient care.Regulatory and Security FocusAfter completing the validation phases and proving the platform's accuracy, Bowhead Health plans to seek the necessary regulatory approvals to operate in its target markets. The platform is currently hosted on Amazon and Microsoft cloud services, depending on partner preferences, but can also be run on-premise within hospital environments. This flexibility is vital for hospitals that prioritize data security and prefer isolated systems."We can run our software in an air-gapped on-premise environment, ensuring that no external company has access to sensitive data," Francisco noted. Data privacy and security are fundamental aspects of Bowhead Health's philosophy. "There's a lot of talk about data and AI, but privacy often becomes secondary. That's why, at Bowhead, we put data privacy and security at the core of what we do, empowering patients to own and control their health records."Transparent AI and Traceable ResponsesA distinctive feature of Bowhead Navigator is its use of "transparent AI." Francisco explained, "Our platform allows users to double-click on clinical trials or treatments and see why they were recommended. This traceability is essential in healthcare for ensuring patient safety and understanding the decision-making process."The platform achieves this transparency through knowledge graphs that map out nodes of labeled information. This structured approach allows healthcare professionals to see the rationale behind AI-generated recommendations—a feature that traditional large language models often lack.Seamless Integration and InteroperabilityBowhead Health's platform can integrate seamlessly with hospital systems through APIs using the FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) standard. This interoperability enables data from electronic medical records to be processed efficiently. For hospitals with limited IT resources, the Bowhead Navigator also offers a standalone platform where data can be imported directly, streamlining the process for finding suitable clinical trials and treatments. Francisco mentioned, "We pull data from sources like clinicaltrials.gov and Dana-Farber's genomic database and can customize our platform to incorporate regional medical guidelines."Addressing Doctor Burnout and Patient Wait TimesFrancisco stressed that one of Bowhead Health's primary goals is to reduce the administrative workload that contributes to doctor burnout. "Patients are waiting too long, and doctors worldwide are overwhelmed with paperwork instead of focusing on patient care. We aim to streamline workflows to benefit both doctors and patients," he said.With its AI-driven solutions, Bowhead Health is poised to transform clinical trial matching and precision medicine while upholding the highest standards of data privacy and transparency. The company's commitment to empowering patients and supporting medical professionals sets it apart in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.

Dr. Anmol Kapoor, a practicing cardiologist in Calgary, Canada, had long been frustrated by the limitations of traditional medicine. Time and again, he encountered patients with heart diseases who defied easy explanations - why did some develop conditions earlier than their family members? Why did certain people react differently to common treatments like aspirin? The answers, he believed, lay in the realm of genetics, a field that held the key to unlocking the mysteries of individual health.Driven by this conviction, Kapoor set out to establish BioAro, a company that would revolutionize the way we approach healthcare. During the COVID-19 pandemic, as the world grappled with the complexities of the virus, Dr. Kapoor saw an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of genomics, microbiomes, and exomes - the building blocks of our biological makeup.BioAro's mission was clear: to make genomic data interpretable and actionable for both doctors and patients. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and even quantum computing and blockchain technologies, the company aimed to provide personalized insights that would empower individuals to take control of their health.From its headquarters in Alberta, BioAro has rapidly expanded its global footprint, with offices in Europe and the Middle East. The company's diverse portfolio includes clinical services such as gut health clinics, sports genomics, and longevity medicine, all underpinned by a robust research and development arm that has amassed over 90 patents.One of BioAro's crowning achievements was successfully passing the evaluation performed by the College of American Pathologists, where the company's AI-powered software achieved 100% accuracy in interpreting a whole genome sequence—a milestone Kapoor describes as "singularity," showcasing technology's transformative potential in personalized medicine. This success is remarkable given the complexity of whole genome sequencing, with its 3 billion base pairs and the potential for up to 8 billion variations. BioAro's AI accurately identified the reference genome type and precisely called out every variant in the genome without a single false positive or false negative. Achieving this level of flawless data interpretation is incredibly challenging, making BioAro's technological breakthrough truly groundbreaking.As BioAro looks to the future, it has set its sights on Taiwan, a global hub of computing and innovation. The company is currently in negotiations with Taiwanese firms to integrate its software into advanced hardware solutions, addressing the need for new computing technologies—including specialized chips and GPUs—to process and manage vast datasets. With the expansion of BioAro's technologies on a global scale, the demand for robust computing power has grown, not only for data storage but for dynamic, real-time analysis. BioAro is collaborating with a company whose hardware aligns with its technology and has expressed interest in embedding BioAro's software into their devices. In addition to exploring this partnership, BioAro is also considering developing proprietary hardware and chips. Partnering with established companies like Nvidia, or firms within their network, could allow BioAro to integrate its software into tailored hardware solutions, enabling rapid, large-scale data analysis on a global level.It is also exploring partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, healthcare institutions, and academic institutions in Taiwan to further advance its mission.Kapoor's vision extends beyond just treating diseases; he aspires to help people live longer, healthier lives. To that end, BioAro is spinning off two new companies – one focused on sports genomics and the other on longevity medicine – both of which are seeking strategic investments to fuel their growth.As Kapoor and his team continue to push the boundaries of what's possible, they are poised to transform the way we approach healthcare, one genome at a time.

According to a press release, on November 18, Samsung Electronics held a tool-in ceremony for its new semiconductor research and development complex (NRD-K) at its Giheung campus, which will house ASML's high-NA EUV system.NRD-K commenced construction in 2022 and is poised to become a pivotal research hub for Samsung's memory, system LSI, and foundry semiconductor R&D endeavors. The complex, spanning 109,000 square meters within the Giheung campus, will house advanced infrastructure enabling research and product-level verification under one roof. Samsung plans to invest approximately KRW20 trillion by 2030 in this facility. Additionally, an R&D-dedicated line is scheduled to commence operations in mid-2025.The NRD-K project will be outfitted with advanced technologies like high-NA EUV lithography and material deposition equipment to speed up the development of next-generation memory semiconductors, including 3D DRAM and V-NAND with over 1,000 layers.Additionally, it will feature wafer-bonding infrastructure with cutting-edge wafer-to-wafer bonding capabilities. Samsung has invested a record-breaking KRW8.87 trillion in research and development during the third quarter of this year, aiming to enhance its competitiveness in future technologies, including advanced packaging for high-bandwidth memory production.Young Hyun Jun, vice chairman and head of the device solutions division at Samsung Electronics, stated that NRD-K would enhance their development speed, allowing the company to create a beneficial cycle to advance fundamental research on next-generation technology and mass production. He emphasized their intent to establish a new foundation for progress in Giheung, the birthplace of Samsung Electronics' 50-year semiconductor history, aiming to create a promising future for the next 100 years."At a time when the importance of win-win partnerships is greater than ever, Applied Materials is committed to accelerating innovation velocity through deep collaboration with Samsung Electronics, working together to drive a new wave of growth for the semiconductor industry," said Park Gwang-Sun, Head of Applied Materials Korea.Samsung's Giheung campus, situated south of Seoul, holds historical significance as the birthplace of the world's first 64-megabit (Mb) DRAM in 1992, marking the inception of the company's semiconductor leadership. The establishment of the new R&D facility will foster advancements in process technology and manufacturing tools, solidifying the site's position at the forefront of innovation.

The TPCA Show and IMPACT Conference 2024 was held in Taiwan at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 1 from October 23rd to 25th. Two strategic brand presences of MKS, Atotech, and ESI impressed visitors at the show. The crowded booth, the many paper presentations at the IMPACT conference, and the specially hosted session on "Advancing AI chips from silicon to PCB" draw special attention to the company this year, a leader in Taiwan's PCB, IC substrate, and semiconductor industries.In addition to the enthusiastic participation at the exhibition this year, many senior leaders from MKS headquarters, including CEO Dr. John Lee, also gathered from all over the world. In addition to the show, the leaders also discuss and communicate with important customers, as well as such as the TPCA Chairman, for a deep level of information exchange which will be valuable to each other. Through these activities, customers and MKS became closer. During this period, the CEO was also interviewed by the media to let the industry know more about MKS and the contributions and efforts MKS can make to the PCB, IC substrate, and semiconductor industries.MKS' teams on the show floor.The teams from both strategic MKS brands came together to represent the new combined company and its combined expertise in advanced PCB via drilling systems, lasers, optics, and motion with process chemistry and equipment for current process and yield optimization, as well as next-generation product development, e.g. for advanced material processing, via formation, glass package substrates, solar, batteries and more. One of the focal points at the show was on Optimize the InterconnectSM which can be achieved with Atotech and ESI products and services. Optimize the InterconnectSM is an MKS offering that provides printed circuit board (PCB) and advanced electronics packaging customers with a wide range of products and services for creating interconnects in the most advanced PCB and IC packaging designs. Services include PCB and advanced electronics packaging interconnect creation and evaluation services, access to the MKS Technology Centers for installation, setup and troubleshooting services, application development services, application labs and support, design and development services, and maintenance, repair, and calibration services. This unique combination of MKS' via drilling and routing, and chemical plating expertise enables customers to accelerate their product roadmaps, solve the challenges associated with new materials and finer feature sizes, and thereby create the interconnection more effectively with higher quality output and faster time to market.MKS' CEO Dr. John Lee by Gary.MKS' team with TPCA Chairman Mr. Lee.We offer a broad range of MKS' technologies and capabilities—such as lasers, precision optics, motion control, beam measurement, via drilling systems and process chemistry—to provide a unique solution for optimizing the manufacturing of PCB and advanced electronics packaging interconnects, a key part of the overall PCB and advanced electronics packaging manufacturing process."We understand the importance of providing our customers with the best solutions and services including sustainable products and energy-saving equipment to create win-win situations for our customers," said Daniel Schmidt, Global Marketing Director. Throughout the week, various local and international executives were available to meet with teams, customers, partners, and prospects to discuss the way forward with a special focus on the latest industry trends and challenges. The teams made special efforts to welcome and introduce the latest technologies and solutions to key industry participants and customers and the team demonstrated our new synergies and total solution package consisting of PCB production equipment (wet-to-wet process equipment, laser systems, and auxiliaries), chemistry, software, and service to the Taiwanese PCB industry. After one year since the acquisition, the industry and especially our customers are expressing high confidence in our integration, and trust that we can provide them with more complete solutions to support their future product and manufacturing development roadmap.MKS' Industrial Forum and the audiences.Presenters of the MKS' Industrial Forum.The team also presented 6 papers at the IMPACT technical conference this year. A key event was the IMPACT industrial forum on October 23 from 1:30– 3:30 pm, where industry leaders in specific fields were invited to talk about their contributions to the developments and manufacturing of AI, especially glass substrate technology explorations and discussions. The attendees benefited greatly from these talks and discussions. Daniel Schmidt, Global Marketing Director said: "The special industrial session helped our company to draw attention to industry trends, challenges, and possible solutions. Many questions were asked and discussed during the session, and it showed our contributions not only in our solutions but also in the technology developments within our industries."

In line with global space industry trends, Taiwan's Small and Medium Enterprise and Startup Administration (SMESA), under the Ministry of Economic Affairs, is organizing the International SpaceTech Startup Supporting Program through Taiwan Accelerator Plus (TAcc+). Executed by the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), the program aims to attract international SpaceTech startups to Taiwan, support local startups in accessing global markets, and foster partnerships for international expansion. By collaborating with global accelerators, TAcc+ brings foreign startups with advanced technologies to Taiwan, offering education, networking, and exposure to Taiwan's dynamic space industry.The TAcc+ program underscores Taiwan's commitment to becoming a key player in the global space industry by fostering a vibrant ecosystem for innovation. By attracting cutting-edge startups and fostering collaborations, Taiwan aims to leverage its advanced manufacturing capabilities and technological expertise to drive space-related advancements.For this year, OQ Technology, Manastu Space Technologies, and Tethys are startups invited to Taiwan to show their innovations in the satellite service and space application area. Luxembourg's OQ Technology integrates LEO satellite constellations with 5G networks, enabling global connectivity for IoT applications. Manastu Space Technologies specializes in advanced space propulsion with its hydrogen peroxide-based green fuel, providing safer and more efficient satellite maneuverability. Tethys, meanwhile, is revolutionizing thermal management with its Tempesta system, initially designed for Earth-based industries, but ultimately aimed at supporting astronauts and spacecraft in extreme space environments.OQ Technology S.A.R.LFocusing on providing satellite-based 5G IoT solutions, OQ Technology based in Luxembourg was co-founded by Omar Qaise, who has a distinguished background in satellite communications and aerospace engineering. As the company's CEO, Omar's expertise and experience have been pivotal in the company's focus on delivering global connectivity through low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. OQ Technology's team includes experts in satellite design, network engineering, and IoT applications, making them a leader in integrating LEO satellite constellations with 5G networks.OQ Technology's primary offering is its LEO satellite constellation, which enables low-latency, high-performance connectivity for IoT applications across industries such as agriculture, logistics, and energy. Their hybrid connectivity solutions integrate satellite networks with terrestrial 5G infrastructure, providing seamless global coverage even in remote areas. The hybrid approach enhances overall network performance and bridges the connectivity gap between terrestrial and satellite systems.Leveraging LEO satellites, the company provides faster data transmission with lower latency compared to traditional geostationary satellites. The integration with 5G networks allows for extensive global coverage and improved scalability, making it ideal for industries requiring large-scale IoT connectivity. OQ Technology also offers cost-efficient end-to-end solutions, simplifying the implementation of satellite communication networks for diverse applications.A significant milestone for OQ Technology was its collaboration with Aramco, one of the world's largest oil companies headquartered in Saudi Arabia, in August 2024. OQ Technology demonstrated its satellite solutions in remote oil fields, enhancing communication and asset management. The partnership is a testament to OQ's ability to provide reliable and scalable solutions for industries in challenging environments.OQ Technology's Engagement with Taiwan's SpaceTech Ecosystem for Strategic Partnerships and ExpansionDuring its recent visit to Taiwan, the OQ Technology team engaged with TASA and ITRI, where they explored local expertise in satellite technology and manufacturing, gaining insight into Taiwan's ambitions for space innovation. "We were impressed by Taiwan's manufacturing capabilities and focus on advancing national space programs, especially with TASA's efforts in low-Earth orbit (LEO) and 5G connectivity," Abdulaziz Alsaeed, Global Business Development & Sales Manager at OQ Technology noted. The visit also involved meetings with Taiwanese engineers and scientists, laying the groundwork for possible joint projects that integrate OQ's satellite-based IoT solutions with TASA's LEO initiatives.OQ Technology also explored Taiwan's academic resources, as Alsaeed mentioned, by attending the International SpaceTech Startup Academia-Industry Collaboration Workshop hosted by ITRI. The company established contacts with experts from National Central University (NCU), opening doors to future partnerships for research and development.Additionally, OQ Technology engaged with local tech companies to explore Taiwan's robust manufacturing capabilities, with a specific interest in hardware and semiconductor suppliers for their satellite systems. Collaborative discussions with companies such as Galaxy Star Space, and other local enterprises including Tron Future, Rapidtek, Compal Electronics, and the Syscom Group offered OQ Technology a view into Taiwan's potential as a strategic partner in developing next-gen satellite connectivity. Through these interactions, OQ Technology sees Taiwan as a key regional hub that could support its ambitions to grow within the Asia-Pacific market.Oct. 18th Taiwan Startup Terrace Visitation at Kaohsiung. OQ Technology (row 1, second from the left ), Manastu (row 2, fourth from the left), Tethys (row 1, third from the left). Credit: TAcc+Manastu Space Technologies Pvt. Ltd.Manastu Space Technologies, founded in 2017 by alumni of IIT Bombay, is at the forefront of the space industry's move towards sustainability with its innovative green propulsion systems. Traditional propulsion systems often rely on hydrazine, a highly toxic and expensive chemical, which has long been the go-to fuel for space missions. The company has developed a hydrogen peroxide-based fuel that is not only safer but also more efficient, offering up to 50% greater efficiency compared to conventional systems.This fuel powers Manastu Space's advanced propulsion systems, designed to cater to small and medium satellite operators—a growing market segment. These systems provide enhanced satellite maneuverability, reducing operational costs and increasing the mission lifespan. On the occasion of the global space industry prioritizing the reduction of space debris and toxic by-products, the team's focus on environmentally friendly propulsion is crucial.To expand its global reach, Manastu Space is actively seeking strategic partnerships with technical vendors, satellite manufacturers, and space agencies worldwide. Its visit to Taiwan is a strategic step towards establishing a strong presence in the market and exploring potential collaborations with local aerospace and technology firms.Manastu Space Collaborates with Taiwan's Advanced Tech Ecosystem for Sustainable Space SolutionsConsidering the advanced manufacturing capabilities, and vibrant technology ecosystem that Taiwan has, Manastu Space believes that collaborations with Taiwanese companies will help it establish a reliable and efficient supply chain to accelerate the development and production of its innovative propulsion systems. The company also expects to acquire potential partners for the vision of contributing to a sustainable and safer space industry.Isha Raje, Sr. Lead of Business Development from Manastu Space, was impressed by the local industries and institutions' robust technological capabilities and collaborative potential, "Interacting with these organizations has been really instrumental in understanding the current state of Taiwan's space infrastructure and technology capabilities as well." She highlighted the visits to TASA and ITRI, "they showed the capability Taiwan has in space, materials, electronics manufacturing, all these areas."Apart from that, the company also visited a few local universities and interacted with some of the professors. "This has provided an excellent platform for us. We also identified some areas of collaboration like with the National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), " Raje said, "we're exploring how we can work together to develop new technologies." Manastu Space is also preparing to sign an MOU with NCKU, and the company has signed an MOU with an industry partner, Advanced Material Systems. Their engagements further solidified Taiwan's position as a valuable partner and are expected to bring expertise that could advance Manastu's projects in the green propulsion system.Reflecting on the trip to Taiwan, Raje expressed that their stay, though productive, felt short. "Before coming here, I thought one month would be a very long time, but now I think one month is too little. I'd have to spend at least 3 to 4 months here." She emphasized the company's strong interest in further integration with Taiwan's tech ecosystem, driven by the country's efficient lead times and high-quality outputs.TETHYSTethys, a company led by two experienced aerospace engineers, Giacomo and Rebecca, aims to bridge the gap between space-grade technologies and their terrestrial applications. Tethys specializes in thermal management systems, a critical technology for both space exploration and Earth-bound industries that operate in extreme environments.The company's flagship product, Tempesta, is designed to provide thermal comfort in industrial sectors, construction sites, and security forces where extreme temperatures can be a hindrance to productivity and safety. By deploying space-grade thermal management technologies on Earth, Tethys is creating a financially sustainable business model that can fuel its long-term space ambitions.However, Tethys' vision goes far beyond Earth. The company's future plans include the development of high-performance "thermal control systems for space suits" and "next-generation thermal systems for spacecraft". By mastering thermal solutions for extreme environments on Earth, Tethys is positioning itself as a key player in the future of space exploration. These innovations will be crucial for enabling deep-space missions, where maintaining stable temperatures in space suits and spacecraft is essential for astronaut safety and mission success.With Tempesta's success, Tethys is actively building the engine to drive future innovations, from space suits for deep space missions to next-gen satellite thermal management systems. The team's vision is to make space exploration a reality and expects the ground-based technology will be the catalyst to empower the company to be the technology leader both on Earth and in space. The startup is also open to establishing long-term partnerships to achieve these goals and push the boundaries of innovation together.Tethys Looks for Collaborations in Taiwan for Advanced Temperature Control SolutionsDuring the recent visit to Taiwan, Rebecca Martinelli, CTO of Tethys was highly impressed by the well-organized meetings and diverse partnerships established across Taiwan's academic and industrial sectors. "I was impressed by how we could connect with so many different groups in such a short time," which facilitated their market entry and partnership opportunities in Taiwan.One of the most promising collaborations identified was with Taiwan's Metal Industries Research & Development Centre. As Martinelli mentioned Tethys found that the possibility to print in 3D with materials like alumina and titanium could be revolutionary for their device development, given these materials' lightweight and heat-resistant properties. This collaboration is seen as pivotal for refining and manufacturing Tethys' temperature control devices to meet industry needs, especially for applications in extreme environments like space. The interaction underscored Taiwan's capability to support innovation in material sciences and custom manufacturing.In addition, Tethys' team visited NCU and engaged with the professors who lead laboratories for the microgravity experiments. "We entered a very real laboratory and watched how they performed tests with microgravity," Martinelli said, "they have a real problem with these experiments, which is the control of the temperature, most specifically the control of the delta temperature during these experiments in the gravity fields." She discussed with NCU professors the possibility of using Tethys' solution to replace the current bulky, immobile temperature control methods. Both parties were excited and confident about future collaboration.Martinelli concluded that Tethys sees Taiwan as a strategic partner with robust technical expertise. This visit laid the foundation for long-term partnerships that will bolster Tethys' technical development and market reach in Asia.Startups Leading the Charge into the Next FrontierAs those startups continue to refine their technologies and expand their global reach, they are not only pushing the boundaries of space exploration but also contributing to critical technological advancements here on Earth. The convergence of environmental sustainability, practical applications, and space innovations makes this an exciting time for the global space industry.Oct. 15th SpaceTech & AI Synergy Collaboration Event by ITRI and TSIDA. OQ Technology (row 2, fifth from the left), Manastu (row 2, second and third from the right), Tethys (row 1, fourth from the right). Credit: TAcc+