CEA LIST

What CEA LIST does

CEA-List is the technological research division of the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA, founded 1945), operating as a Carnot-labeled public research institute headquartered in Nano-INNOV at Paris-Saclay with additional sites in Grenoble and Gif-sur-Yvette. The institute specializes in intelligent digital systems, running four core technology platforms: an AI platform (~200 researchers) anchored by the FactoryIA 300-GPU supercomputer and tools such as LIVA, ExpressIF, N2D2, LIMA, PIXANO and Streamer; the VIKI multi-physics interactive simulation platform (~25 staff, €3.5M invested, 5 patents) used in VR/XR digital twin workflows; the SMART interactive robotics platform (~50 staff, 1,500 m², 12 patents/year, software CORTEX/SCORE) for cobots, exoskeletons and teleoperation; and the CisLab advanced sensors and instrumentation platform (~70 staff, 2,600 m², €4.5M, 60 R&D projects, 7 patents/year), home to the NanoPix world's-smallest gamma camera (8 cm, 412 g) used at Orano's La Hague and Marcoule sites.

The institute commercializes its technology principally through industrial R&D contracts (bilateral, joint labs, framework agreements), supplemented by public funding from PIA/France 2030 and European programs (Horizon Europe, EURATOM, EU Chips Act), together with software licensing (CIVA non-destructive testing distributed by Extende to ~350 firms; open-source Papyrus and Frama-C) and a startup spin-out pathway that has produced ISYBOT, Arcure, Extende, Alkalee and Kalray. Customers span nuclear (Orano, Framatome, SOGIN, EDF), aerospace and defense (Dassault Aviation, Safran, Thales, ANSSI), energy and mobility (RTE, Siemens, KUKA, Stäubli, ABB, Universal Robots, TCS), and logistics/construction (Log'S, SADE, SOCOTEC/BIMDATA.IO). Recent offensive moves include the PSMC partnership for RISC-V/silicon photonics, the FRATHEA FLASH radiotherapy JV with Thales/Curie, the TCS physical-AI alliance, the CLICKNCRYPT fully homomorphic encryption launch, and Data4Industry-X / Data4NuclearX federated data spaces.

Name

CEA LIST

Legal name

CEA-List

Website

https://list.cea.fr

Company type

Public

Founded year

1945

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

501–1,000 employees

Short description

CEA-List is the intelligent-digital-systems research division of France's CEA, operating four technology platforms (AI, VIKI simulation, SMART robotics, CisLab instrumentation) from Paris-Saclay and serving industrial partners in nuclear, aerospace, defense, energy and mobility through R&D contracts, licensing and spin-offs.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Headquarters

HQ city

Paris

HQ country

France

HQ region

Europe

Offices3 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure, Operations, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Public Research Funding: CEA-List is part of CEA (Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives), a French public research organization. Funding comes from government sources, PIA (Programme d'Investissement d'Avenir), and European research programs.
2. Industrial R&D Contracts: Partnership-based R&D contracts with industrial companies including bilateral contracts, joint labs, and framework agreements. Revenue generated through collaborative research projects addressing specific industrial technological challenges.

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

CEA-List is a French public research institute that provides collaborative R&D services and develops intelligent digital system technologies for industrial partners. Its core deliverable spans bilateral and framework research contracts in AI, robotics, cybersecurity, digital twins, and instrumentation, combined with proprietary software platforms (Papyrus, CIVA, CORTEX, XDE Physics, FactoryIA) and hardware innovations such as the NanoPix gamma camera and AI accelerators.

Product overview

CEA-List is a French research institute specializing in intelligent digital systems, operating as a Carnot-labeled research center. The organization offers a portfolio of technology platforms and software tools for industry, research, and societal applications. Core platforms include VIKI (interactive multi-physics simulation in VR/XR), SMART (interactive robotics for cobots and teleoperation), an AI Platform (responsible AI development with FactoryIA supercomputer), and CisLab (advanced sensors and instrumentation). Key software tools include XDE Physics (physics simulation), CORTEX/SCORE (robot control), Papyrus (model-based systems engineering), CIVA (non-destructive testing simulation), ExpressIF (explainable AI decision support), LIVA/CLIVA (semantic visual processing), PIXANO (image annotation), Streamer (data stream analysis), N2D2 (neural network optimization), LIMA (multilingual NLP), and Frama-C/Binsec (software security analysis). Hardware products include NanoPix (world's smallest gamma camera), AI accelerators (DNeuro/PNeuro), and collaborative robots. Recent product launches include CLICKNCRYPT (fully homomorphic encryption), Papyrus-Web (cloud-based systems engineering), CompressoRN (neural network compression), and Bridge (IoT protocol translation). The institute focuses on AI, digital trust, digital manufacturing, digital health, mobility, and cybersecurity applications.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• VIKI: Interactive multi-physics simulation platform in VR/XR for industrial applications
• SMART
• CISLAB
• FactoryIA
• XDE Physics
• CORTEX
• Papyrus
• NanoPix
• CIVA

Products and services

• VIKI (Interactive Multi-Physics Simulation Platform) Interactive multi-physics simulation platform enabling real-time VR/XR simulations of industrial environments, digital twins, and collaborative scenarios for manufacturing and factory planning.
• SMART (Saclay Manufacturing And Robotics Technology Platform) Interactive robotics platform for cobots, exoskeletons, teleoperation, and collaborative robotics development with industrial partners, including CORTEX and SCORE software environments.
• Responsible AI Platform (IA Responsable) Responsible AI platform offering tools for AI development, validation, and certification including LIVA, PIXANO, ExpressIF, Streamer, N2D2, with access to FactoryIA supercomputer (300 GPUs, 3 Tflops).
• CisLab (Advanced Sensors and Instrumentation Platform) Advanced sensors and instrumentation platform for designing, testing, and qualifying innovative measurement systems including radiation detection, fiber optic sensors, and diamond-based sensors.
• FactoryIA (HPC Supercomputer for AI) Teraflop-scale supercomputer with 300 latest-generation GPUs across 41 computing nodes, delivering approximately 3 Tflops and managing up to 1 Petabyte of data for AI algorithm development.
• NanoPix (World's Smallest Gamma Camera) World's smallest gamma camera (8 cm diameter, 412 g) for radiation hotspot detection in nuclear environments, using coded mask technology with 256x256 pixel detector and 6-degree angular resolution.
• Nanopix3 (Third-Generation Gamma Spectro-Imager) Third-generation gamma spectro-imager with enhanced performance, successfully deployed on autonomous robots at nuclear decommissioning sites for rapid hotspot detection.
• CIVA (Non-Destructive Testing Simulation Software) Non-destructive testing simulation software for ultrasonic, radiographic, and Eddy current testing analysis, distributed by Extende with 350+ industrial users worldwide.
• Papyrus (Model-Based Systems Engineering Platform) Open-source model-based systems engineering platform (Eclipse-based) for functional design, software architecture, and systems modeling with Papyrus for Robotics extension.
• Papyrus-Web (Cloud-Based MBSE Platform) Cloud-based open source model-based systems engineering platform enabling collaborative functional design and systems modeling through web browser.
• XDE Physics (Multi-Physics Simulation Environment) Physics simulation environment for interactive multi-physics simulation in VR/XR, enabling realistic simulation of rigid, articulated, and deformable object manipulation with virtual human biomechanics.
• CORTEX (Robot Control Software Environment) Robot control software environment for force/hybrid force-position control, enabling rapid integration of various robots and master arms with real-time performance.
• SCORE (Supervised Robot Command Environment) Supervised robot command development environment for intuitive programming interfaces and supervised control of robotic systems.
• ExpressIF (Explainable AI Decision Support) Explainable AI tool for rule-based decision support using fuzzy logic, integrating explainability and rule learning for manufacturing and business applications; Version 3 adds planning capabilities.
• LIVA / CLIVA (Semantic Visual Data Processing) Semantic visual data processing tool for image analysis and graphical configurator for visual understanding and scene interpretation.
• PIXANO (Image Annotation Platform) Image annotation and computer vision data qualification platform facilitating development of data-centric AI for computer vision.
• Streamer (Data Stream Analysis Environment) Software environment for machine learning on data streams, enabling analysis of massive data flows with continuous learning capabilities.
• N2D2 (Neural Network Optimization Toolkit) Neural network exploration, optimization, and generation tool associated with various hardware accelerators for embedded AI, including methodology for evaluating AI application portability across architectures.
• LIMA / CLIMA (Multilingual Linguistic Analyzer) Multilingual linguistic analyzer for automatic language processing, now incorporating deep learning for enhanced performance in text analysis and understanding.
• DNeuro, PNeuro, Samourai, Spirit, Largo (AI Hardware Accelerators) AI calculation accelerators facilitating development of embedded AI systems with various form factors for edge deployment.
• CLICKNCRYPT (Fully Homomorphic Encryption Solution) Industrialized fully homomorphic encryption solution enabling secure AI processing and data sharing without decryption, revolutionizing confidential data collaboration.
• Bridge (IoT Protocol Translation Technology) Inter-protocol translation technology enabling IoT communication between different protocols for guaranteed interoperability in connected systems.
• CompressoRN (Neural Network Compression Solution) Ready-to-use neural network compression solution for embedded AI applications, enabling efficient deployment of trained AI models on resource-constrained devices.
• Data4NuclearX (Nuclear Data Exchange Platform) Sovereign and secure digital space for nuclear industry data exchange, part of France 2030 initiative.
• EVOC (Enhanced Virtual Open Core — Nuclear VR Training Platform) Multimodal VR training platform for nuclear education, enabling immersive practical work combining real and virtual resources for reactor operation training.
• Cobomanip (Collaborative Manipulation Robot) Collaborative manipulation robot for assisting operators in precise heavy-load positioning, developed in partnership with KUKA for industrial applications.
• Frama-C (C Code Formal Verification Platform) Open-source C code verification platform for bug-free software development.

Quantifiable outcome

• 350 companies worldwide use CIVA non-destructive testing simulation software
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers11 records

Segments6 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration10 records

AI capability14 records

Feature10 records

Partnerships

27 partnerships are on record, tiered core and major.

• Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2026Strategic partnership with CEA-Leti and CEA-List integrating RISC-V processor architectures and silicon photonics into PSMC's 3D stacking and interposer platforms for next-generation AI hardware. Combines CEA-List's RISC-V design expertise with PSMC's manufacturing capabilities to address copper interconnect limitations and power constraints in high-performance computing.
• ThalescoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2026Partnership with CEA and Institut Curie for construction of a world-unique FLASH radiotherapy platform to accelerate cancer treatment. Part of FRATHEA project.
• ISYBOTmajorTechnology or Integration · 1 February 2026Startup from CEA-List pioneering collaborative robots (cobots) for industrial sanding. Raised €7M in 2026 and €3M in 2023. Develops and industrializes cobots with CEA-List robotics technology.
• Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 September 2025Strategic partnership to accelerate innovation in physical AI, combining CEA-List's research capabilities with TCS's global industrial reach.
• SOCOTEC / BIMDATA.IOmajorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 November 2024Pioneering cooperation agreement on building data management facilitated by AI, under France 2030.
• DawexcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 June 2024Joint R&D laboratory for industrial data spaces innovation. CEA and Dawex collaborating to accelerate innovation in federated industrial data exchange platforms.
• ThalescoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 June 2024Partnership on trustworthy generative AI for defense and security applications.
• Data4Industry-X Consortium (Dawex, Schneider Electric, Valeo, Prosyst)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 February 2024Joint creation of Data4Industry-X, a trusted industrial data exchange solution enabling federated data spaces with governance standards for industry.
• SiemenscoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 October 2023Collaboration to extend digital twin applications in industry, leveraging CEA-List's simulation expertise with Siemens' industrial software platforms.
• KUKAmajorTechnology or Integration · 1 June 2023Technology partnership on Cobomanip collaborative robotics platform announced at Paris Air Show.
• ANSSI (National Cybersecurity Agency of France)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 June 2022Reinforced collaboration in cybersecurity, combining CEA-List's research capabilities with ANSSI's regulatory expertise.
• Dolphin DesignmajorTechnology or Integration · 1 July 2021Partnership on embedded systems and microelectronics design.
• StreetDronemajorTechnology or Integration · 1 June 2021Collaboration on autonomous vehicle technology and related digital systems.
• Confiance.aicoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2021Core partner in Confiance.ai program for trustworthy industrial AI development, bringing together French research and industry to create a digital commons for responsible AI.
• StäublimajorTechnology or IntegrationTechnology partner and equipment supplier for SMART robotics platform. Provides industrial robots for collaborative applications research.
• ABBmajorTechnology or IntegrationRobotics technology partner for industrial automation research.
• Universal RobotsmajorTechnology or IntegrationCobot technology partner for collaborative robotics research.
• HaptionmajorTechnology or IntegrationHaptic interface provider (Virtuose 6D) for VIKI VR/XR simulation platform.
• OranocoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerLong-standing nuclear industry partner. Developed NanoPix gamma camera, ongoing collaboration on nuclear instrumentation and decommissioning technologies.
• Dassault AviationmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAerospace industry partner for advanced manufacturing and robotics research.
• SafranmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAerospace partner for digital twin and robotic inspection development.
• IsybotmajorTechnology or IntegrationTechnology partner for collaborative robotics, co-developing cobot solutions for industrial applications.
• BertinmajorTechnology or IntegrationPartner for radiation detection and monitoring systems integration.
• EDFmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerEnergy sector partner for nuclear instrumentation and monitoring applications.
• WINMSmajorTechnology or IntegrationPartner for wireless instrumentation and monitoring systems.
• SOGINmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerItalian nuclear operator partner for CLEANDEM project demonstrating robotic nuclear decommissioning technologies at Eurex Saluggia site.
• IAEAmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerInternational Atomic Energy Agency collaboration on nuclear instrumentation standards and best practices.

Scale indicators9 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• CEA-Leti: Sister microelectronics institute within CEA Tech, sharing headquarters and jointly partnering with PSMC on RISC-V/silicon photonics. Directly comparable because both operate Carnot-labeled research platforms, share industrial-partnership GTM, and jointly address AI hardware and embedded systems.
• INRIA: France's national public research institute for digital science and AI. Peer because it serves the same sovereign French AI mission, co-funds industrial partnerships, and overlaps directly on AI, robotics, and cybersecurity talent pools.
• Fraunhofer Society: Germany's applied research network with ~76 institutes serving industry under contract research and licensing models. Directly comparable because of the Carnot-equivalent role in bridging public R&D and private-sector deployment across automation, AI, and embedded systems.
• DFKI (German Research Center for AI): Germany's leading public AI research consortium with industry-funded project teams. Peer due to overlapping scope in trustworthy AI, robotics, embedded AI accelerators, and similar industrial consortium go-to-market.
• TNO: Dutch applied-research organization running contract R&D for industry and government in AI, robotics, sensors, and embedded systems. Closely comparable operating model with shared European industrial customer base and Horizon Europe funding channels.

Broad incumbents

• CNRS: Largest French public research organization spanning all scientific domains with labs that include AI, robotics, and instrumentation. Broader incumbent offering partial overlap with CEA-List's research scope under the same national R&D funding framework.
• SINTEF: Scandinavian applied-research group with deep expertise in sensors, materials, instrumentation, and digital systems. Comparable as a publicly funded European research partner working with industrial clients in energy and manufacturing.

Regional players

• VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland: Finnish state research center active in AI, sensors, nuclear safety, and quantum computing. Comparable as a Northern-European peer institute with similar industrial contract research and instrumentation capabilities, but operating outside CEA-List's primary French/EU focus.

Emerging players

• CSEM: Swiss public-private R&D center specializing in microelectronics, sensors, AI, and digital systems. Comparable as a smaller-scale applied-research partner with focus on instrumentation and embedded AI where CEA-List's CISLAB and N2D2 platforms compete.

Others

• National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST): U.S. government agency operating research laboratories on AI standards, quantum, and advanced sensing. Comparable in the institutional role of providing foundational reference technology, instrumentation standards, and trusted AI frameworks that anchor industrial deployments.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/cealist
• Xx.com/CEA_List

Compliance2 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles6 records

Subsidiaries4 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

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M&A

Investments

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Frequently asked questions about CEA LIST