Martin van den Brink to Receive Honorary Doctorate from TU/e
Former ASML president Martin van den Brink will be honored with an honorary doctorate from TU/e for his significant contributions to the semiconductor industry, emphasizing collaboration and innovation.
Acknowledging a Legacy of Innovation
On June 13, 2024, Martin van den Brink will be awarded an honorary doctorate by the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). This prestigious recognition is part of TU/e’s Research Day 2024, a day dedicated to celebrating advancements in engineering and technology. Van den Brink’s career, characterized by his unwavering commitment to innovation and collaboration, has left an indelible mark on the semiconductor industry.
Technological Breakthroughs
Martin van den Brink’s work at ASML, particularly in the development of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography, revolutionized chipmaking processes. Under his leadership, ASML achieved a new density record with their High-NA machine, capable of printing 8 nm dense lines, surpassing the previous 10 nm record[1]. This achievement not only pushed the boundaries of what was technically possible but also paved the way for future advancements in semiconductor manufacturing.
Champion of Collaboration
Throughout his career, Van den Brink has emphasized the importance of teamwork and multidisciplinary collaboration. He often highlighted the role of combined knowledge and skill in overcoming engineering challenges. At ASML, this approach led to significant innovations, including the development of complex lithography machines essential for producing advanced computer chips. Van den Brink’s philosophy that ‘success does not come from one person, but from the team’ has been a guiding principle in his leadership journey[2].
An Inspirational Figure
Van den Brink’s contributions extend beyond technological advancements. He has been a mentor and an inspiration to many in the engineering community. His advice to young engineers to ‘always stay curious, be creative, and persevere’ reflects his own journey from a curious young boy dismantling electrical appliances to a leader in one of the world’s foremost technology companies[3]. His story underscores the value of curiosity and resilience in achieving technological breakthroughs.
Recognition at TU/e
Professor Maarten Steinbuch from TU/e praised Van den Brink’s contributions, noting the alignment of his work with the core values of the university, particularly in systems thinking and collaboration. The honorary doctorate not only recognizes Van den Brink’s technical achievements but also his role in fostering a culture of teamwork and innovation. This award highlights the university’s commitment to honoring those who have made significant impacts in engineering and technology.
A Future-Oriented Vision
Van den Brink’s vision for the future includes an emphasis on system architecture and multidisciplinary collaboration. He advocates for a holistic approach to problem-solving, integrating various fields of knowledge to tackle complex engineering challenges. This outlook is particularly relevant as the semiconductor industry continues to evolve, facing new challenges and opportunities. Van den Brink’s legacy at ASML and his ongoing influence in the field serve as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovative thinking.