The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced an open competition under the CHIPS for America program, aimed at advancing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to develop sustainable semiconductor materials and manufacturing processes. With up to $100 million in funding, the competition seeks university-led collaborations that combine AI with autonomous experimentation (AI/AE) to accelerate the creation of environmentally friendly semiconductor technologies. The initiative intends to foster innovation that can be adopted within five years, strengthening the U.S. semiconductor industry while reducing environmental impact.
AI-powered autonomous experimentation has the potential to revolutionize semiconductor research by combining automated synthesis and characterization tools with AI-driven decision-making processes. This approach accelerates the design of new materials and helps generate materials data at a much faster pace than traditional methods. CHIPS for America is seeking projects that leverage AI/AE to address sustainability challenges and advance semiconductor manufacturing, while encouraging collaboration across universities, industry, and research institutions.
The program is positioned to engage stakeholders across multiple sectors, from government and academia to industry and environmental groups. It aims to expand research opportunities for emerging institutions and support the growth of semiconductor research talent. The competition aligns with broader U.S. efforts to enhance sustainability in semiconductor manufacturing, improve performance metrics, and establish the U.S. as a global leader in efficient and safe semiconductor production.
• Up to $100 million in funding available for university-led, AI-powered sustainable semiconductor research.
• AI/AE combines automated synthesis and AI “planners” to accelerate materials research.
• The competition encourages collaboration across research institutions, industry, and government.
• Focus on sustainability and the rapid adoption of new semiconductor materials and processes.
• Expands opportunities for emerging research institutions in semiconductor R&D.
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo stated, “With this new program, the Biden-Harris Administration will harness the vast capabilities of AI to unleash the full potential of our workers and innovators, while building a more secure and enduring domestic semiconductor industry.”
