Meet Gweltaz Gaudin, Winner of the 2024 Top Inventor Award

Currently a Research and Development Engineer at Soitec, with several years of experience and recognized expertise in microelectronics, Gweltaz GAUDIN works within the Pathfinding team, which is responsible for exploring innovative avenues early in the product lifecycle. His role involves testing and validating new technologies, in collaboration with external partners such as IMEC and LETI, before their introduction into products.

Specialized in advanced substrates, Gweltaz is particularly involved in the development of technologies for the next generation of processors, particularly the substrates used in the fabrication of CFET-based circuits.

Holding a Master’s degree in Materials Science and a PhD in collaboration with STMicroelectronics, he joined Soitec after his doctorate to contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies, such as silicon-on-insulator (SOI) and silicon-on-sapphire. He also played a key role in the development of the SmartSiCTM and SmartGaN products, and is currently working on the CFET project, which aims to develop substrates for the continuation of the advanced logic roadmap.

Why did you choose a career in microelectronics?

Always passionate about science, I have also been drawn to the creative side of research. Microelectronics allowed me to combine both of these interests. This field offers a strong practical component and fascinating technical challenges, especially in nanometer-scale physics, and the opportunity to invent and design cutting-edge technologies. The hands-on, almost artistic nature of working with materials, as well as the diversity of applications, really captivated me.

What specific challenges attract you in this sector?

Microelectronics presents a major technical challenge, particularly when it comes to understanding matter at the atomic scale and implementing technologies to manipulate extremely small structures. Characterization methods, such as electron microscopy, allow us to observe nanometer-scale structures, which is particularly stimulating from both a scientific and technical standpoint. Working at the frontier of knowledge and technological innovation has always motivated me.

What motivates you most in your daily work?

What motivates me is contributing to technological innovation and being involved in breakthrough projects. Creativity is essential, as we often need to explore new approaches to solve complex problems. One must be curious, organized, and flexible to drive a project to completion while staying open to new ideas. Every day brings its challenges, and the ability to think differently is crucial.

What skills are essential to succeed in your field?

Being curious, organized, and able to manage projects independently while remaining open to changes and surprises is essential. Creativity is also a key quality because the field requires the ability to propose new solutions, both technically and in terms of work methods. Innovation is at the heart of our work, and it’s important not to be discouraged by failures but rather to look for new paths to progress.

What achievement are you particularly proud of?

I am particularly proud of my contribution to the integration of new materials like GaN and InP on silicon during my mission at IMEC between 2013 and 2015. This project paved the way for many collaborations and has directly influenced current developments, particularly in the context of CFET. Another memorable experience was presenting our work on Smart GaN at the ICNS14 conference in Japan, where I was able to showcase Soitec's unique expertise in this field.

What advice would you give to a young person starting in microelectronics?

I would advise them to stay curious, explore the various facets of the sector, and understand the applications of the technologies they are working on. It’s important not to limit oneself to daily tasks but to try to understand the long-term challenges and the ultimate goals of the products. This allows for a better understanding of the technical challenges and gives meaning to one’s work. Perseverance and an open mind are also essential qualities for success in this dynamic sector.