Thomas Kirschstein
Thomas Kirschstein is a Partner in Roland Berger’s Advanced Technology Center, specializing in semiconductors, physical AI and humanoid robots.
With over 15 years of international consulting experience, Thomas has helped semiconductor companies capture growth opportunities, sharpen technology and R&D priorities, and strengthen their competitive positions. His expertise spans chip design, manufacturing and semiconductor equipment, with experience in segments such as memory and power semiconductors.
As part of his activities in physical AI, Thomas has advised humanoid robot companies on market entry, product positioning and industrialization, translating technological capabilities into actionable commercialization strategies. His perspective combines edge AI and edge computing with a clear understanding of industrial economics.
For automotive and industrial companies, he has reduced semiconductor and electronics procurement costs, strengthened supply resilience and addressed critical dependencies through integrated sourcing and technology strategies.
Thomas also supports investors and corporate buyers with commercial and technical due diligence, assessing technological differentiation, market potential and investment risks.
A co-author of Roland Berger’s studies on advanced technologies, semiconductors and humanoid robots, Thomas is a regular keynote speaker at major industry events, including those organized by SEMI. He holds an MBA from INSEAD and is based in Roland Berger’s Hamburg office.
Technology alone does not create competitive advantage. The winners turn it into competitive products, resilient value chains and profitable growth.
The 2040 technology game plan
Study, September 10, 2026
Physical AI: The next competitive advantage for manufacturers
ARTICLE, August 18, 2026
Humanoid robots: Why the convergence moment is now
STUDY, April 15, 2026
Hannover Messe 2026 – Entering the next phase of industrial intelligence
Article, April 9, 2026
Scaling European tech champions
Study, February 4, 2025
Silicon carbide in automotive power electronics
STUDY, May 15, 2024
GenAI hardware
STUDY, May 2, 2024
Humanoid robots: From science fiction to reality
Article, April 16, 2024
Quantum Technologies – Ready for take-off at last?
Article, March 15, 2024
Quantum sensors are a quantum leap for sensing technology
Article, December 20, 2022
Semiconductor shortage 2023: A different kind of trouble ahead
Article, November 9, 2022
Steering through the semiconductor crisis
Article, December 15, 2021
Semiconductor crisis in the automotive industry
Article, April 7, 2021
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems: A ubiquitous technology for the future of vehicles
Article, March 31, 2021
A path to success for the EU semiconductor industry
Article, February 12, 2021