# Equipment: MRI: Track 1: Acquisition of a Cryogen-Free Sub-Kelvin Variable-Temperature System for Electronic and Quantum Materials Measurements

> **NSF 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VA) · $393,875

## Abstract

Non-technical Description:
The project consists of the acquisition of a versatile instrument for experimental characterization of solid electronic materials and electronic devices over a range of temperatures, from above room temperature to deep cryogenic temperatures. The instrument enables studies by a community of scientists and engineers aiming to extend the limits of a wide range of electronic materials and devices. Important impacts exist in both science and technology regarding microelectronics, sensors, and quantum information science. Research projects enabled by the instrument use a combination of variable and low temperatures and high magnetic fields for the characterization and understanding of electron states in new materials. The instrument is specifically designed for ease of use and for high measurement throughput. These attributes also enable educational activities using the instrument, to produce a trained workforce in microelectronics, semiconductors, and quantum sciences via educational partnerships and an experiential open inquiry course meshing with quantum technologies degrees. The instrument also sees use by a nearby technology company for research and development projects. 

Technical Description:
The project pursues the acquisition of a variable temperature instrument towards electronic and quantum materials and electronic device measurements. The instrument consists of a cryogen-free cryostat with a variable temperature insert space in which top loading sample probes are inserted for measurements. A helium-3 probe allows sample temperatures from 0.3 kelvin to about 60 kelvin. A standard probe allows sample temperatures from 1.3 kelvin to 325 kelvin. The instrument is equipped with a superconducting magnet for controlled bipolar magnetic fields up to 8 tesla. The system is capable of fully automated cooldown and control, and it features fast sample cooldown for higher measurement throughput. The instrument is cryogen free, so that its o

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2510111
- **Awardee organization:** Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** QDE5UHE5XD16
- **PI:** Jean J Heremans
- **Primary program:** 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Microelectronics and Semiconductors, MAJOR RESEARCH INSTRUMENTATION, QUANTUM INFORMATION SCIENCE
- **Estimated total:** $393,875
- **Funds obligated:** $393,875
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 05/01/2026 → 04/30/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2510111

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2510111, Equipment: MRI: Track 1: Acquisition of a Cryogen-Free Sub-Kelvin Variable-Temperature System for Electronic and Quantum Materials Measurements. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-07-05 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2510111. Licensed CC0.

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