A NSF grant will fund a new student research program in advanced semiconductor technologies
Texas Tech University has been awarded a $439,233 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to launch a new Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site focused on wide and ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) semiconductor technologies.
The project, titled Wide/Ultrawide Bandgap Semiconductor Technologies and Applications (WUBSTA), will be led by principal investigator Hieu P. Nguyen, associate professor and co-principal investigator Tim Dallas, professor, both from the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering.
The three-year program, set to begin Nov. 1, 2025, aims to foster a comprehensive research and training environment for undergraduate students pursuing advanced studies in nanoelectronics and nanophotonics. Participants will work closely with faculty and graduate student mentors to synthesize, characterize and apply UWBG semiconductor materials such as gallium oxide (Ga₂O₃), aluminum nitride (AlN) and related heterostructures.
“This initiative will prepare a new generation of engineers and scientists in a rapidly evolving field that is vital to both economic competitiveness and national security,” Nguyen said.
Key research activities include epitaxial growth, device fabrication and in-depth testing of high-power transistors, memory devices and light-emitting components. Students will engage in approximately 40 hours per week of hands-on research during the 10-week summer program.
Senior personnel involved in the project include Heather Greenhalgh-Spencer, associate professor and associate dean of the Graduate School; Stephen Bayne, vice chancellor for innovation and collaboration; Ayrton Bernussi, professor and co-director of the Nano-Tech Center in the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering; Ravi Joshi, department chair of the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering; Argenis Bilbao, assistant professor in the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering and Taewoo Kim, assistant professor in Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering; and Joseph Gauthier, assistant professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering. Greenhalgh-Spencer, an expert in research and education evaluation, will serve as the internal evaluator to assess the program's outcomes and overall productivity.
The WUBSTA REU site emphasizes translating theoretical research into real-world applications in high-speed electronics, power systems, radiofrequency devices and optical technologies. The program also aims to promote diversity and inclusion in STEM, offering seminars, mentorship and professional development to help participants build both technical and soft skills.
“The program is designed to not only advance semiconductor technology, but also to equip students with the tools to become leaders in research and industry,” Dallas said.
Additional details are available on the NSF website at NSF.gov Award #2447875.