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The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation in a range of high-impact fields, including:

• Semiconductors
• Photonics
• Electronics and Optoelectronics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Quantum Technologies
• Internet of Things (IoT)

The MOU creates opportunities for both organizations to pursue joint research initiatives, technology development projects, training activities, workshops, seminars, researcher exchanges, and future commercialization opportunities.

“Canada and India are both investing in the technologies that will define future competitiveness and economic growth,” said Gordon Harling, CEO of CMC Microsystems. “This agreement with NIT Calicut strengthens international collaboration in semiconductor technology research while creating new opportunities for research and innovation ecosystems in both countries.”

Through the collaboration, the organizations will explore opportunities to connect researchers, share expertise, and develop initiatives that accelerate the translation of research into real-world applications.

“This collaboration with CMC Microsystems opens a valuable channel for our researchers and students to work at the frontier of semiconductors, photonics, and quantum technologies alongside one of Canada’s leading platforms for advanced technology development. We look forward to the joint projects, training opportunities, and exchanges this partnership will make possible, and to the impact it will have on our research community.” – Dr. Nikhil Kumar C S, Assistant Professor, NIT Calicut

Strategic Benefits of the Collaboration

The agreement is expected to:

• Strengthen research and innovation links between Canada and India.
• Advance semiconductor and microelectronics research capabilities.
• Foster collaboration in emerging technologies including AI, quantum, photonics, and IoT.
• Support talent development through researcher, faculty, and technical staff exchanges.
• Enable joint workshops, training programs, and knowledge-sharing activities.
• Explore future pathways for technology transfer and commercialization.
• Create opportunities for collaborative projects involving academia, industry, and innovation partners.

The MOU serves as a foundation for future project-specific agreements and collaborative activities that support technology innovation and workforce development.

About CMC Microsystems
CMC Microsystems has been enabling advanced technology innovation in Canada for more than 40 years, managing federal and provincial investments to support research, accelerate commercialization, and strengthen Canada’s high‑tech ecosystem. With support from the Government of Canada, CMC leads FABrIC, a $217‑million Strategic Response Fund initiative to build a vibrant and sustainable Canadian semiconductor ecosystem anchored by world‑class talent and global impact.

About National Institute of Technology Calicut (NIT Calicut)
Established in 1961 and designated an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India, NIT Calicut is one of the country’s premier public technical universities, known for its research and academic programs across engineering, science, architecture, and management. The institute has a strong focus on emerging technologies, including a dedicated nanotechnology department, and maintains active research collaborations with academic and industry partners worldwide.

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