Industry

What are Microsystems

Microsystems encompass a broad and dynamic field of micro-engineering research, driving the development of innovative miniaturised technologies. This includes microfluidic devices, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), and precision microfabricated components. Research in this area may be fundamental or application-driven, targeting specific industrial needs and is crucial to the advancement of multiple scientific and industrial sectors.

As a key enabling technology, microsystems play a vital role across numerous industries, including healthcare, quantum technology, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and environmental monitoring where miniaturisation is a primary design driver. The impact of microsystems is far-reaching, supporting breakthroughs in diagnostics, automation, and next-generation computing.

Furthermore, microsystems contribute to critical national and global priorities, including Net Zero targets, sustainable manufacturing, and national security. As industries strive for greater efficiency and innovation, microsystems will continue to be at the forefront of transformative technological advancements.

The UK’s Microsystems Industry

The UK is home to successful small to mid-volume companies specialising in microsystems, alongside key suppliers within the microsystems supply chain. These include, but are not limited to:

• Alter Technology
• BAE Systems
• Bay Photonics
• CN Bio
• Custom Interconnect
• Dolomite Microfluidics
• Druck
• Epigem
• Flusso
• IceMOS
• Inex
• IQE
• Lightcast
• MFX
• Micron Semiconductor
• Microsaic
• Nanusens
• Nexperia
• Owlstone Medical
• Oxford Instruments
• Plasmatherm
• QuantuMDx
• RAB Microfluidics
• Rapid Fluidics
• Scientific Vacuum Systems
• Semefab
• Silicon Microgravity
• Sofant Technologies
• SPTS
• Sphere Bio
• Teledyne e2v

What is the UK Microsystems Network

The UK Microsystems Network was set up in 2025 in response to an EPSRC report on the state of Microsystems research across the UK. The network is open to anyone from academia, industry, policy or elsewhere with an interest in Microsystems technology.

The key aims of the UK Microsystems Network are:

• Drive collaboration and knowledge exchange in microsystems
• Strengthen and expand the UK’s microsystems capabilities
• Increase visibility and awareness of microsystems technologies and applications
• Provide expert insights and strategic guidance to shape UK policy and support UK industry growth

What are the benefits of the UK Microsystems Network to Industry

• Enhance awareness of the UK’s R&D facilities, expertise and available services
• Identify potential partners for collaboration and commercialisation opportunities
• Showcase expertise, ensuring potential collabarators are aware of your capabilities
• Promote the facilities and services your company has available for commercial engagement
• Increase organisational visibility and highlight key strengths
• Highlight market demands to align research activities with industry need and help drive research from low to high Technology Readiness Level

How to join the UK Microsystems Network

Anyone can join the Network by registering here