STMicroelectronics (ST) and Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), which claims to be one of China's most renowned national key universities, have opened the doors of a joint laboratory that aims to promote innovation in electronics. It will also encourage research and development of emerging applications of electronics including medical, power management and multimedia convergence. The laboratory is located at the Electric and Electronic Experimental Teaching Center of HIT.

ST will provide its various products, IC samples and technical documentation, as well as regular training to facilitate students in the design and development of innovative electronics projects. HIT will provide general-purpose facilities and management of the joint laboratory. At the initial stage, the joint lab will focus on smart sensor applications. ST will donate its iNEMO development tools supported with an iNEMO software platform.

"HIT is recognized as among China's leading technology institutes with strong research capabilities and talented students. MEMS is a high-growth industry and high-quality engineers are very much in demand," stated Patrick Boulaud, ST regional VP, analog, MEMS and sensors, Greater China and South Asia Region.

"ST is on the cutting-edge of the MEMS technology revolution and our cooperation with ST gives faculty and students access to the most advanced design tools," noted XU Dianguo, assistant principal of HIT, "It is HIT's first joint laboratory built upon a project-based learning mode aimed at boosting innovation among students. ST's willingness to support the development of innovation in electronics applications in higher education demonstrates the Company's leadership and we are confident that this cooperation will enhance HIT's research capabilities."