Our Mission
The POPCORN project aims to revolutionize semiconductor testing by developing a cutting-edge Device Aware Testing (DAT) platform. By integrating physical defect modeling into test processes, it enhances outgoing chip quality and reliability at optimized test cost, accelerates accurate diagnosis and yield learning, reduces in-field failures in critical applications, and strengthens Europe’s position in the global semiconductor industry through scalable, industry-ready solutions.
Who are we?
This project is driven by an exceptional team whose combined expertise spans cutting-edge academic research, high-impact entrepreneurship, and deep industrial experience. With multiple successful spin-outs, multimillion-euro funding raised, and technologies already adopted by global semiconductor and Electronic Design Automation leaders, the team exemplifies the perfect fusion of innovation and execution. Their leadership across critical domains ensures not only technical excellence but also commercial viability. With decades of experience at institutions such as Intel, Philips, NXP, and leading European universities, the team’s unique synergy positions them to redefine the frontier of chip testing for today’s most advanced nodes and emerging technologies.
Our Executive Team
Said Hamdioui
Said Hamdioui is the founder of Device-Aware-Test (DAT) technology and Chair Professor of Dependable and Emerging Computer Technologies at TU Delft, where he leads the Computer Engineering Laboratory. With over 20 years of experience in semiconductor testing and emerging technologies, both in industry (e.g., Intel, Philips/NXP) and academia, he has delivered groundbreaking innovations with wide-ranging impact on the chip industry. Hamdioui has authored hundreds of publications, holds multiple patents, and has advised leading semiconductor companies worldwide in the field of test and design-for-test.
Georgi Gaydadiev
Georgi Gaydadjiev is a computer engineer with 35+ years of experience in development of various computer systems; from small, low-power devices up to application-specific supercomputers. He is the Chair in Computer Architecture at the QCE department. Previously, Georgi has been with Imperial College, University of Groningen and Chalmers on various chair and honorary positions. He was a Vice President of Maxeler Technologies Ltd for 5 years and also founded and managed Maxeler IoT-Labs BV until 2020. In the 80's and 90's, Georgi was with the Computing Industry in Bulgaria and later Netherlands at various engineering and project management positions.
Mottaqiallah Taouill
Mottaqiallah Taouil is currently an Associate Professor in the Computer Engineering (CE) Laboratory, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS), Delft University of Technology (TU-Delft). His expertise is in hardware dependability and is also co-founder of Cognitive-IC, a start-up focusing on hardware dependability solutions.
Hidde-Jan Lemstra
Hidde-Jan Lemstra is entrepreneur and innovation leader with extensive experience in building ventures that bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world impact. Over the past decade, he co-founded several companies spun out from academic institutions, focusing on sustainable technologies, pay-per-use models, and deeptech innovations. His expertise lies in guiding these companies through business planning, fundraising, and scaling, helping them navigate the complexities of tech transfer and commercial success.