Semiconductor science for a smarter Wisconsin
The Grainger Institute for Engineering’s (GIE) strategic support of the campus-wide Semiconductor Science Initiative played a pivotal role in launching Wisconsin CHIPS, a statewide collaborative effort building a transdisciplinary research environment and advancing semiconductor science and technology.
Wisconsin CHIPS unites top researchers, scientists, and industry leaders to strengthen the microchip ecosystem, address today’s challenges, anticipate tomorrow’s needs, and position UW–Madison as a national leader in semiconductor innovation.
Six key research areas driving innovation
AI-aided manufacturing
Leveraging AI and machine learning to enhance semiconductor production, in-space manufacturing, and quality assurance.
Beyond silicon
Developing next-generation materials—like spintronics, memory technologies, RF electronics, and quantum components—to push microelectronics beyond traditional limits.
Heterogeneous integration
Advancing chiplet-based architectures to solve challenges in interconnects, power delivery, thermal modeling, and EDA for AI and ML.
Photonics
Designing optical components and integrated circuits for sensing, communication, and thermal management.
Quantum information science
Pioneering scalable quantum computing and sensing through quantum dot qubits and superconducting circuits.
Wide-bandgap semiconductors
Creating high-efficiency, durable devices using wide-bandgap materials and advanced MOCVD techniques.
From campus to industry: real-world impact
Accelerating research
Wisconsin CHIPS enables cross-campus collaboration and rapid innovation through shared resources, including a centralized research library that streamlines proposal development and fosters interdisciplinary breakthroughs.
Building career pathways
With top-notch curriculum and statewide partnerships, Wisconsin CHIPS educates students with hands-on training, cutting-edge labs, and real-world experience—preparing a skilled workforce for the semiconductor industry.
Advancing industry
By bridging academia and industry, Wisconsin CHIPS gives companies direct access to UW–Madison’s expertise, facilities, and talent—accelerating R&D, driving competitiveness, and fueling growth in Wisconsin’s semiconductor sector.
Shaping policy
Wisconsin CHIPS serves as a trusted voice in semiconductor policy, engaging with state and federal leaders to advocate for research funding, workforce development, and legislation that supports a thriving innovation ecosystem.
Let’s lead the next era of essential technology—for people and planet.
Through Wisconsin CHIPS, we’re building a collaborative ecosystem that drives innovation, strengthens supply chains, and prepares the next generation of semiconductor leaders.
Together, we can create meaningful change–one chip at a time.