Why does Arizona State University (ASU) matter to the wider semiconductor ecosystem?
ASU’s significance lies in its scale, ambition, and mission of inclusivity and excellence in research. Our goal is to impact communities locally and globally, transforming not just Tempe, Arizona, but also the world. We aim to be both the biggest and the best by excelling at scale in ways other universities aren’t attempting. A unique example is our semiconductor fabrication facility, a rarity among U.S. universities. Originally built by Motorola, this 25,000-square-meter facility is now used for R&D, piloting, and prototyping. It allows us to partner closely with companies, providing access to equipment and driving innovation. ASU’s strategy unites university strengths with industry needs, ensuring we're at the forefront of solving important problems.
Given that labor shortages are increasing in the semiconductor space, what role does ASU play in equipping the U.S. for the next generation of the AI revolution?
At ASU, we balance training students to meet industry needs while always putting their interests first. Students recognize market demand, and we see many orienting toward fields like computer science, where salaries might be higher. However, we ensure they receive a strong foundation in engineering fundamentals to prepare them for long-term success, regardless of market shifts. We also offer specialized pathways through senior capstone projects, master’s programs, and non-credit options, allowing students to hone skills in areas with growth potential. At the same time, we encourage companies to make their jobs attractive to ensure students align their studies with emerging opportunities, particularly in the semiconductor industry.
As someone who has risen quickly to a professorship at a top university, why did you stay in Arizona, and why has TSMC made such a significant investment here?
Arizona offers immense opportunity, driven by factors like favorable taxes, low electricity costs, and a lack of natural disasters. This has made Arizona one of the fastest-growing states, and there’s a real sense of energy and openness to development that allows visions to be realized quickly.
This dynamic environment has attracted significant investments, including TSMC’s. ASU reflects this entrepreneurial spirit. The university encourages innovation and allows faculty to pursue bold ideas without the constraints seen at more traditional institutions. That openness and support for forward-thinking initiatives is why I have stayed in Arizona, even when other places, like Silicon Valley, hold personal appeal.
What is ASU’s setup regarding intellectual property with startups, and how does it work for the startups you have helped found, including Swiftcoat, Sunflex, and Beyond Silicon?
ASU's approach to intellectual property allows for innovation while supporting the university's mission. Faculty and students submit invention disclosures, and the tech transfer office licenses the resulting IP. Typically, inventors who want to start companies have the first opportunity to license that IP. For companies like Swift Coat, Sunflex Solar, and Beyond Silicon, that’s exactly what we did—graduate students and I were the primary inventors, and startups that we created licensed the IP. Generally, ASU retains a small equity stake and some royalties in exchange for the IP. After that, the companies are free to operate independently, raising funds and growing as any other startup would, without additional constraints from the university.
How do companies like Applied Materials or TSMC assist with fundraising for ASU startups?
Large semiconductor companies have several options to support startups, including direct investments through their corporate venture capital (CVC) arms, like Applied Ventures and LAM Capital. These strategic investors look for business alignment, not just financial returns. For example, LAM Capital’s annual pitch competition for semiconductor startups was won this year by an ASU startup, Crystal Sonic. In addition to direct investments, companies might take a hands-off approach as startups grow through venture capital before considering acquisition. Another option is funding research at universities before a startup is formed, negotiating IP rights with the university to ensure access to innovative developments from faculty research.
What is your biggest need right now as a professor, founder, and university administrator?
Time is always a challenge, but access to top talent is crucial. Graduate students do much of the research, so attracting the best minds is essential for advancing innovation. As a university administrator, I focus on identifying strategic partnerships that benefit both ASU and industry, ensuring we’re aligning with the right opportunities. Sustained investment is another key need. The Chips Act has been transformative, but I worry about long-term funding. Semiconductor research is capital-intensive, and without continued investment, there’s a risk of progress slowing or stalling. Lastly, as a founder, access to capital is an ongoing challenge, particularly outside of tech hubs on the coasts. While Arizona has enormous potential, more investors need to recognize the untapped opportunities here.
