Investing in Serbia's electronics research
Growing market interest in printed and nanoelectronics have put these fields in the spotlight. In support of these technologies, the EU is helping to boost the infrastructure and research potential of various technical science institutes through the FP7's REGPOT scheme. In this context, the APOSTILLE project is focused on reinforcing the excellence and strengthening the research potential of the FTS at the University of Novi Sad in Serbia. Collaboration with experienced research partners in Germany, Italy, Austria and Slovenia aims to increase the knowledge and skills of the FTS. Part of the APOSTILLE project plan is to strengthen the faculty's human potential by employing researchers with technical expertise in the field of wireless sensor networks, as well as with experience on intellectual property rights (IPR) protection. Regarding the infrastructure of the FTS, research equipment has been obtained for the characterisation of nanocomponents and nanomaterials and for electronics material deposition. The FTS personnel are also being trained through workshops, conferences and invited lectures from networking partner organisations. These will assist knowledge transfer and boost the research skills of the FTS staff. At the same time, the visibility of project activities and the research potential of the refurbished FTS department are being promoted. The experience acquired by the FTS staff will help them apply for FP7-funded project proposals, boosting their research funding and excellence. Overall, the support offered by APOSTILLE is expected to improve the research potential of the FTS department, fostering partnerships with leading institutes within Europe and improving Serbia's competitiveness in the field of electronics.