Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) has strengthened its advanced electronics research capability with the appointment of two leading compound semiconductor experts, as it looks to accelerate the commercialisation of next-generation power semiconductor technologies.
The University of Warwick research group has welcomed Professor Peter Gammon and Dr Arne (Ben) Renz from Warwick’s School of Engineering, establishing a dedicated compound semiconductors research area within WMG. The move is designed to bolster WMG’s expertise in Power Electronics, Machines and Drives (PEMD), while reinforcing the University’s position in one of the fastest-growing areas of advanced electronics.
Compound semiconductors, particularly those based on silicon carbide (SiC), are increasingly viewed as critical to the electrification of transport, renewable energy and industrial systems. Unlike conventional silicon devices, SiC chips can operate at higher voltages and temperatures while delivering greater efficiency, enabling longer-range electric vehicles, more efficient renewable energy systems and lower-energy AI data centres.
The appointments come as the focus of SiC research shifts from proving the technology’s potential towards developing devices that can be manufactured reliably and at industrial scale. Professor Gammon and Dr Renz will lead research into next-generation SiC power semiconductor devices, working closely with manufacturers and industrial partners through programmes including the UKRI REWIRE Innovation and Knowledge Centre. Their work aims to improve device performance, reliability and manufacturability to support adoption across the automotive, aerospace and space sectors.
The expansion also supports the UK’s Industrial Strategy by strengthening domestic capabilities in semiconductor design, advanced manufacturing and resilient supply chains.
Professor Peter Gammon said: “Power semiconductors are becoming as strategically important to electrification as batteries.
“As silicon carbide technology matures, the challenge is increasingly about manufacturing, reliability and industrial scale-up. WMG provides an ideal environment to translate our research into technologies that deliver real economic impact.
“Together with our colleagues in the School of Engineering, we’ll continue to build on Warwick’s internationally recognised semiconductor research, while strengthening our partnerships with industry. By combining research excellence with manufacturing and industrial collaboration, we can help accelerate the commercial adoption of these technologies.”
The appointments build on WMG’s wider strategy of developing industrial innovation ecosystems, including its work through the Faraday Battery Challenge, and follow the University of Warwick’s recently announced memorandum of understanding with Tata Power.
Professor Paul Jennings, WMG’s Director of Research, said: “We are delighted to welcome Peter and his team into WMG. Their expertise and partnerships in this crucial area complement our existing research and align perfectly with our aim to enable industry to become more sustainable, resilient and competitive.”
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