December 1, 2023 – Artificial intelligence, 5G-6G, big data, robotics, cybersecurity, computers & IoT protocols and 3D & 4D printing are the technologies with the most research groups at the UPC, according to the study ‘Analysis, map and detection of Deep Tech areas and technologies‘. This study has been prepared within the framework of the Fractus-UPC Deep Tech Hub. it detects 16 technologies in which 50% of the University’s research groups are distributed, depending on the social impact or industrial escalation.

The methodology applied enables the identification of technologies that can truly be considered Deep Tech, meaning they have the potential to generate disruptive solutions developed around scientific discoveries and advanced engineering innovations. Additionally, these technologies can address global challenges, both social and economic, in the form of highly innovative products, services, or systems. Nearly all of them are technologies with notable maturity levels according to the study, defined through the Technological Readiness Level (TRL) and Social Readiness Level (SRL) of each. These technologies are finding relevant applications in various sectors, from health to industry, optimizing results and processes.

The report is unique in its approach, as it assesses both industrial scalability and social disruption criteria. This allows for the identification of technologies with the highest potential impact and the ability to address significant societal challenges.

The study also determines the relationship between technology and the generation of patents and spin-offs at the university. While 3D printing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Bioinformatics, Photonics, and Robotics are the technologies that generate most patents, AI and Robotics have been more successful in creating spin-off companies, followed by Bioinformatics and Big Data.

AI, IoT, 5G and 6G, and Cybersecurity, the focus of the Hub for the new academic year

By understanding the potential of these technologies, the Fractus-UPC Deep Tech Hub team can focus its efforts on research and innovation areas that have the capacity to generate a significant impact on society. Thus, for the new academic year, the Hub will focus on IoT, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and 5G and 6G technologies, areas in which the UPC technologies have demonstrated a high level of maturity and research productivity.

“This report aims to present the results of a comprehensive analysis carried out to identify Deep Tech technologies. Thus, we provide an overview of the capabilities and strengths of the UPC in the field of these advanced technologies and offer recommendations on how to leverage these capabilities and strengths for future applications. Now, from the Hub, we will focus on researching and bringing to the market through monetization 4 of the 16 identified technologies: IoT, AI, cybersecurity, and 5G and 6G technologies”

Dr. Carmen Borja, Fractus CTO

“This report provides an overview of the state of research and innovation at UPC in relation to technologies that could be classified as potentially Deep Tech. This way, we can understand which areas may have the greatest impact in the future from the perspective of social and economic disruption and the scalability of technology”

Dr. Climent Molins, UPC Vice-Rector Tech-Transfer, Innovation and Entrepreneurship