Microelectronic – Front-End Module (FEM)

The main goal of this opportunity is to develop an advanced Front-End Module (FEM) design that covers the FR3 frequency range (7 to 15 GHz, potentially up to 24 GHz). It aims to support both cellular and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) scenarios while advancing international standards for data rates, spectral efficiency, and energy savings. The initiative focuses on integrating diverse technologies such as CMOS, RF, and GaN-on-Si, addressing packaging challenges, ensuring coexistence with satellite services, and strengthening European capabilities for future chip production. The geographic scope includes legal entities from Member States, Associated Countries, OECD, and Mercosur countries. Entities from Russia, Belarus, or certain Ukrainian territories are excluded from participation.

• Project must deliver a comprehensive Front End Module (FEM) design primarily targeting FR3 (7–15 GHz) frequency range (up to 24 GHz only if justified).
• Project must address use cases in cellular and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) scenarios relevant to FR3, with performance near ITU IMT 2030 benchmarks (peak/user data rate, spectral efficiency, and 50% energy reduction vs 5G).
• FEM design must integrate heterogeneous technologies: computing (e.g. CMOS), RF (e.g. GaN-on-SiC, SiGeBiCMOS), and power (e.g. LDMOS), with potential SoC implementation.
• Must demonstrate integration feasibility aligned with European product development and downstream Chip JU Pilot Line compatibility.
• Must include secure Integrated Communication and Sensing (ICAS) functions and interference mitigation with incumbent spectrum users (e.g. satellites).
• Project must outline a development path toward transfer to Pilot Lines, covering design, packaging, and control systems (e.g. AI/ML for energy-efficient Tx/Rx).

Examples:

• A project led by a European research institute and industry partners develops a FEM prototype for 5G/6G base stations using GaN-on-Si technology.
• A consortium from several eligible countries creates integrated FEMs to enable frequency sharing between mobile networks and satellite services.
• A university-industry partnership advances packaging solutions for FEMs, ensuring compliance with international standards and gender equality policies.

• Personnel costs
• Subcontracting
• Travel and subsistence
• Equipment (depreciation or rental)
• Consumables and materials
• Dissemination and communication
• Access to research infrastructure
• IPR and certification
• Audit costs
• Indirect costs (25% flat rate)
• Internally invoiced services

• Budget for this Call: 12,000,000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1
• Budget per grant: 12,000,000€

• At least 50% of the project budget must be managed by SNS JU members (excluding the Union) or affiliated entities.
• Applicants must submit a completed compliance table with their application.
• Only legal entities from Member States, Associated Countries, OECD, and Mercosur countries are eligible.
• Entities from Russia, Belarus, or non-government-controlled territories of Ukraine are not eligible.
• Entities controlled by non-eligible countries must provide guarantees to demonstrate no negative impact on strategic interests.
• Public bodies, research organizations, and higher education institutions must have a gender equality plan.