Process design engineer Meghna De from CSA Catapult’s advanced packaging team recently returned from the International Semiconductor Researchers Forum, hosted in the Republic of Korea.

Meghna was one of only ten delegates to be invited by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) to attend the international forum based on her compound semiconductor assembly and integration.

A large group at the International Semiconductor Researchers Forum pose and smile in a conference room, many giving thumbs-up gestures. - CSA Catapult

The event was hosted by the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology, and the National Research Foundation of Korea, with sessions and talks taking place at the Jeju International Convention Centre (ICC).

As part of the international cohort of researchers, Meghna had the opportunity to hear from delegates from across the EU, US and Asia discuss their work in semiconductors and the critical role they play as an enabling technology for AI, quantum and defence applications.

The forum represented an opportunity for researchers engaged in hands-on, technical roles to collaborate and share expertise, and who may not have previously had opportunities to develop global partnerships.

Modern glass office building, the National Nanofab Centre in Daejon, with Korean signage, trees, cars, and a blue sky. - CSA Catapult

DSIT also specifically selected applicants from wide range of UK semiconductor researchers to join the trip – focusing on those with the greatest potential to work on future research and innovation projects with the Republic of Korea.

Meghna’s selection and participation underscores the role of CSA Catapult in supporting international collaboration, assisting business to innovate, characterise and test their devices and commercialise their products faster – giving the UK a competitive edge in compound semiconductor technology.

As well as attending the forum, a particular highlight of the visit for Meghna was the ability to visit the National Nanofab Centre in Daejon, a pivotal facility within South Korea’s semiconductor manufacturing and testing ecosystem that has supplied major international companies.

“It was a privilege to participate in the 2025 International Semiconductor Researchers Forum as part of the UK delegation.

“I’m thankful to DSIT for coordinating this impactful initiative, which served as a dynamic platform for international engagement and future-focused dialogue.

“The forum offered an exceptional opportunity to exchange ideas with global experts, explore avenues for collaborative innovation on Heterogeneous Integration, and represent the strength of UK research within the international semiconductor community.

“This is a career highlight for me and reinforces the importance of cross-border partnerships in shaping the future of semiconductor technologies.”

Meghna De, process design engineer

“I’m absolutely delighted about Meghna’s selection to join the prestigious International Researcher Forum in the Republic of Korea. It’s a true testament to her talent, passion for innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

“Her participation in this global forum highlights the innovative work happening at CSA Catapult and the growing international recognition of our contributions to advanced packaging. We’re all looking forward to the insights and inspiration she’ll bring back to help shape our research.”

Dr Jayakrishnan Chandrappan, head of packaging

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Advanced packaging process engineer from CSA Catapult selected to join international researcher forum in the Republic of Korea

Process design engineer Meghna De from CSA Catapult’s advanced packaging team recently returned from the International Semiconductor Researchers Forum, hosted in the Republic of Korea.