UEF able to donate millions: focus on CogniGron, HTRIC, and M20 PhD programme

Three pillars of innovation: Science that creates impact

CogniGron: research into computer chips that are up to 10,000 times more energy-efficient

CogniGron conducts ground-breaking research into new energy-efficient computer chips. The technology behind the chips is inspired by the functioning of the human brain. CogniGron already received a donation from the UEF before and was partly because of that able to become a leading research institute in the field of so-called neuromorphic computing. By now, there are 29 professors and over 50 PhD students working together on the design of computer chips that are up to 10,000 times more energy-efficient. After the successful first phase of CogniGron, the next phase of CogniGron will entail collaborating with businesses on the application of this new technology.

HTRIC (Health Technology Research and Innovation Cluster)

HTRIC receives €18,4 million from the UEF for research into ground-breaking medical innovations, such as sepsis diagnostics, photodynamic cancer therapy, imaging techniques for infections, and the development of soft, smart materials. These smart materials are injected into the body using minimally invasive implantation techniques, sent to the right location, and taken into use. This will eventually lead to less complications and allows the body to recover faster. This cluster brings together doctors, technicians, and businesses and plays a pivotal role in the regional ambition to position the Northern Netherlands as the leading centre for health technology. The collaboration between medical professionals, technological experts, and businesses is what makes HTRIC one of a kind.

M20 PhD programme

By funding 10 PhD positions with an amount of €4 million every year, the M20 programme has become an important catalyst for interdisciplinary research. The programme focuses on themes such as sustainability, digitization, and health. The programme is aligned with the UG’s strategy to deploy science more targeted to create societal impact, based on more interaction with the business community, institutions, and non-profit organizations.

A heritage with a lasting impact on the Northern Netherlands

The donation from the alumnus who wishes to remain anonymous has made these initiatives that have a lasting impact possible. The benefits are clearly visible in, for example, intensified collaborations between knowledge institutions and businesses. These projects, such as the development of energy-efficient computer chips at CogniGron, innovative medical technologies at HTRIC, and interdisciplinary research at the M20 PhD programme, offer concrete solutions to global challenges, such as the energy transition and better healthcare. At the same time, the projects boost economic growth in the region by creating new jobs and attracting talent and investments.

About the Ubbo Emmius Foundation

The Ubbo Emmius Foundation supports pioneering research and talent development at the University of Groningen. Thanks to contributions of supporting alumni and donors, the foundation is able to work hard for a better future by bringing science and society closer together. More information about the projects and the mission of the Ubbo Emmius Foundation can be found at www.uef.nl.