Bio:

Dr. Johannes Zellner is Head of Roadmap Technology at ZEISS Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology (SMT). Since joining ZEISS in 2002, he has progressed from optical design and simulation of lithography lenses to leadership roles across ZEISS, including Team Lead Optical Design (SMT), Director Design Engineering (SMT Laser Optics), Director System Design Illumination (SMT), and Director Systems Design (Consumer Products). In his current role (since 2024), he drives research, early technology development and strategic innovation programs and contributes to shaping the ZEISS SMT strategy. He holds a PhD in Physics from the Karlsruhe University (now KIT).

Abstract:

The acceleration of AI is redefining what semiconductor technologies must deliver, from scaling to system‑level integration. As computational architectures evolve, shaping and controlling light becomes increasingly central to enabling further progress. Advances in patterning, metrology, and integration are now essential not only for continued density gains but also for supporting new three‑dimensional approaches. At the same time, the growing pressure of the I/O wall highlights the need for fundamental changes in interface concepts. This talk outlines how optical innovation across these layers contributes to shaping the next era of AI.