News: Suppliers
11 August 2021
Wales highlights new research and education opportunities in semiconductor technologies
Focusing on the technologies behind electric vehicles (EVs) and optical and wireless communications for 5G and beyond, Wales is soon to be home to two new research and innovation facilities comprising about 6000m2 of work space including cleanrooms and labs.
The Centre for Integrative Semiconductor Manufacturing (CISM) at Swansea University’s Bay campus will focus on multiple semiconductor platforms for healthcare and a net-zero future in applications such as clean energy systems and power electronic components that are driving the electric revolution. Meanwhile, Cardiff University’s Translational Research Hub (TRH) at its Maindy Campus will provide facilities for communications and sensing technologies based on integrated compound semiconductors.
Swansea University is currently recruiting students onto a newly launched MSc program in Semiconductor Technology and Applications. Cardiff University already offers two MSc programs along with PhD opportunities through its Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT). In all programs students will gain hands-on laboratory experience developing knowledge and skills in device processing, characterization and applications of compound semiconductors, building a skilled workforce for the Wales region.
Nearing completion at Cardiff University’s Maindy Campus, the new Translational Research Hub (TRH) will be home to the Institute for Compound Semiconductors (ICS). With state-of-the-art equipment, facilities and highly skilled people, the ICS aims to position Cardiff as the UK and European leader in compound semiconductor technologies.
Swansea’s CISM is due to come on-line in August 2022 and will be equipped with the latest manufacturing-relevant tools for 6” and 8” silicon and compound semiconductor wafer processing, plus unique deposition and processing equipment for next-generation materials such as wide-bandgap, organic and perovskite semiconductors and advanced dielectrics.
The complementary investments at Cardiff and Swansea supplement existing activities and will provide routes to markets through the growing CSconnected semiconductor community that is placing Wales at the epicentre of the global connectivity, electrification and net-zero revolution.
The South Wales semiconductor community is expanding rapidly, with 3000-5000 additional, highly skilled new jobs anticipated over the coming 5 years across the region.
To take advantage of the extensive employment opportunities Colleges and Universities in South Wales are delivering semiconductor programs for students and ongoing continuing professional education.
Swansea University gains £4.8m UK funding for 6” and 8” SiC power device pilot line
Kier appointed for CISM building project at Swansea University
