Learn Semiconductor Manufacturing Science and Technology in Taiwan

National Science Foundation

International Research Experiences for Students (IRES) Program

Development of a Globally Engaged U.S. Workforce in Semiconductor Manufacturing

The objective of this International Research Experiences for Students (IRES) project is to cultivate a cohort of globally engaged researchers through an international research internship program. In collaboration with National Chung Hsing University (NCHU) in Taiwan, the project at Texas A&M University (TAMU) aims to create a mechanism to engage a diverse group of undergraduate students in semiconductor manufacturing research. The specific research challenges to be addressed include material innovation, miniaturization and scaling, process integration, quantum effects, and sustainability.

What, When and Where

· Pre-departure program: 1-week virtual program (orientation, online training)

· In-Person program in Taiwan: tentatively scheduled from 6/21/2026 to 8/1/2026

o 2-week semiconductor short courses

o 4-week research immersion

· Post-program: 1-week virtual program (reflection, mentor feedback)

· Fall 2026: Students will participate in an online professional development course to participate in poster presentation and potential research publication

Short Courses Topics

· Introduction to Semiconductors

· Thin Films Technology

· Semiconductor Physics

· Semiconductor Materials

· Packaging and Testing

· Nanolithography

· Semiconductor Technology Hands-On Labs

Potential Research Projects

· Exploring Quantum Transport Mechanisms in Heterogeneous Phase Metal Oxide Semiconductors (MOS) Nanomaterials

· 2H/1T’ Phase-Engineered Synthesis of Monolayer WS2xTe2(1-x) Alloys for Two-Dimensional Metal-Semiconductor Contacts in the Schottky-Mott Limit

· Multi-Element Doping to Enhance Catalytic Activity in Water Treatment for Sustainable Semiconductor Manufacturing

· Semiconductor Fabrication Processes for Devices (@NTU)

· Flip-chip Packaging of Quantum Processors with 2-dimensional Connectivity

· Synthesis of Chiral Molecules and Enantiomeric Excess Measurement for Organic Semiconductors

· Recovery of Iodine from Waste Display Polarizer Thin Films

· Growth of GeSn on Patterned GeSn Metasurface for Efficient Infrared Light Harvesting

· Learning and Memory Functions of 2D Nanomaterial Floating-gate Transistors (FGT)/Silicon-based Field Effect Transistors (SiFET) for the Development of Neurotransistors

· Soft Lithography Fabrication of Microfluidic Devices for Multidisciplinary Applications (@NTU)

· Waste Valorization for Purification of Heavy Metals and Organic Pollutants in Water for Sustainable Manufacturing

· Synthesis of Ligating Polymers by Living Polymerizations and Their Application in Sensors

Program Goals

The overarching goal of this IRES project is to develop a globally engaged workforce in semiconductor manufacturing. Through the planned activities, the expected student achievements are:

1. Improved understanding of the fundamentals of semiconductor manufacturing

2. Enhanced research skills in science and engineering

3. Increased intercultural awareness for effective global collaboration

4. Heightened interest in pursuing careers in semiconductor manufacturing or other STEM fields.

Participant Support

Participants will receive funding support from the National Science Foundation (NSF). Selected student participants will receive roundtrip airfare, housing, and subsistence

Eligibility

· Have a sophomore, junior or senior classification (seniors graduating in the summer are not eligible)

· Must have spent at least one year/two semesters in an engineering/science department by the program start date

· Must be in Good Academic Standing and Good Conduct Standing

· Must attend ALL program-specific orientations

· Openness to other cultures and ways of doing things. Willingness to adapt to the international work environment. Good interpersonal skills to work well with others in different cultures and languages

· Sincere interest in the semiconductor field

PI Contacts:

· Dr. Jyhwen Wang, jwang@tamu.edu

· Dr. Zhijian Pei, zjpei@tamu.edu

· Dr. Bruce Tai, btai@tamu.edu

To Apply – Click Here