Research at New Center Will Unlock Full Potential of Silicon Carbide Chips, Creating More Powerful, Cleaner and More Efficient Energy Systems
New Public-Private Partnership With $8 Million Investment From onsemi To Support Center’s Operations
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a new, public-private partnership between Stony Brook University and onsemi, the largest U.S.-based manufacturer of silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors, to construct a $20 million, state-of-the-art semiconductor research and development facility on the Stony Brook University campus. Silicon carbide is a key component of next-generation semiconductors and is vital to building more powerful, efficient and cleaner electric vehicles and energy infrastructure.
“The state-of-the-art research facility at Stony Brook University will be another step in our mission to reshore the semiconductor industry, strengthen our national security, and cement New York’s status as the chips capital of the United States,” Governor Hochul said. “By investing in cutting-edge technology and world-class talent, we’re building a stronger, more resilient future for Long Island, and New York.”
onsemi Corporate Strategy Senior Vice President Dinesh Ramanathan said, “Advanced power semiconductors are at the core of enabling the widespread adoption of AI and electrification. This new center will play a key role in accelerating innovation in one of the most critical fields for these global megatrends. Aligned with Governor Hochul's vision, and in strong partnership with Stony Brook and Empire State Development, we are building a pipeline of skilled talent who will drive the next wave of breakthroughs in power semiconductors and pave the way for our sustainable future.”
As a result of the partnership, onsemi will invest $8 million to support the center’s operations, while Stony Brook University will invest $10 million in renovations and equipment. Empire State Development will support the new facility through a capital grant of up to $2 million recommended by the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council.
Located in Stony Brook University’s Engineering Quad on its West campus, the new center will allow university research scientists, postdocs, graduate, and undergraduate students to study crystal growth, processing, and metrology with the goal of growing bigger, higher-quality silicon carbide crystals. This will reduce device costs, improve material quality and accelerate the adoption of SiC power electronics in high-performance, high-efficiency applications. Research performed at the center will support new discoveries that bolster New York State’s leadership in the semiconductor industry.
The new research facilities will be available to scientists and industry professionals through potential new consortium agreements to drive R&D in the growth, processing and metrology of silicon carbide crystals. Stony Brook will seek agreements with industrial entities such as crystal growers, equipment manufacturers, raw material suppliers, process modelers and others, as well academic and research laboratories. Through the agreements, they would be able to engage in the silicon carbide growth process directly to test their products and ideas. In turn, the work conducted would provide a training ground for students and professionals who will eventually form the workforce joining these industries, universities, and laboratories.Stony Brook University will also develop a curriculum for an undergraduate minor and a graduate master’s degree and certificate focused on silicon carbide and wide bandgap semiconductors.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “Stony Brook University is at the center of key research initiatives at SUNY and is helping to move New York State and our entire nation forward. We are excited to help build the new center, which will be a catalyst to create the next generation of semiconductors. Governor Hochul has charged SUNY to be a leader in semiconductor research and development, and we appreciate her investment and support as we work to achieve that goal.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "This state-of-the-art research facility represents a significant step forward in securing America's semiconductor future while advancing New York's technology and clean energy leadership. By supporting groundbreaking silicon carbide research at Stony Brook University, we're investing in technologies that will power everything from electric vehicle charging networks to renewable energy storage systems. This partnership exemplifies how strategic state investments can drive innovation, create quality jobs, and position New York at the forefront of the global tech economy."
Read the full press release here.