FMRG: Cyber: Diamond growth Informed by Autonomous Manufacturing for Opportunities in Next generation workforce Development (DIAMOND)

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $3,000,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

As manufacturing in the USA becomes increasingly automated by artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor chip manufacturing hasn’t yet seen widespread AI automation. Currently, semiconductor manufacturing research requires human operators to perform tasks, both in the lab and at the factory. Adding to the problem with chip manufacturing, defect formation in some types of semiconductor chips can ruin their performance, but defects can typically be detected only after the process has been completed. At that point, the chip must be scrapped or repurposed. This problem is especially challenging with promising materials such as diamond, which could transform power transmission and other advanced applications due to its unparalleled thermal and electrical properties. This research endeavors to use AI monitoring together with innovative defect detection and process analysis to automate these processes. This work could lead to an entirely automated cybermanufacturing approach to semiconductor chips, using diamond as the flagship material. The work also includes objectives to assist the existing and future manufacturing workforce to understand, learn, and adapt to AI processes, so as to translate existing jobs into next-generation Industry 4.0 careers. The research will be integrated into a forward-thinking training program in semiconductor manufacturing for graduate students and senior-level undergraduates at MSU and local community colleges, as well as events and opportunities for

Key facts

NSF award ID
2428298
Awardee
Michigan State University (MI)
SAM.gov UEI
R28EKN92ZTZ9
PI
Rebecca Anthony
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Microelectronics and Semiconductors, QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE, Optics and Photonics, ELEMENTARY/SECONDARY EDUCATION, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION
Estimated total
$3,000,000
Funds obligated
$3,000,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
07/01/2025 → 06/30/2029