2514716
Project Grant
Overview
Grant Description
Epscor Crest Phase I: Center for Semiconductors Research
With support from the Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology (CREST), this project aims to address a critical challenge in the U.S. semiconductor industry, enabling low cost yet high-performance computation.
Innovation in semiconductors is essential for modern computing.
This project will transform research and education at Boise State University by integrating semiconductor science into classrooms and increasing student engagement.
In collaboration with industry partners, the project will provide hands-on experience in semiconductor fabrication, device innovation, and computational materials design.
This approach will support economic growth, strengthen national security, and inspire the next generation of engineers, ensuring Idaho and the nation remain leaders in semiconductor technology.
The project bridges research and workforce development through four areas: machine learning-driven materials discovery, atomic-scale thin-film fabrication, energy-efficient semiconductor devices, and neuromorphic computing architectures.
Researchers will develop advanced ferroelectric materials, refine nanoscale deposition techniques, and create computing systems for low-power, high-performance applications.
This research is incorporated into STEM mentorship programs, and workforce training in partnership with local industry.
In sum, the project will enhance semiconductor education and contribute to the future of microelectronics innovation.
The Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology (CREST) program provides support to enhance the research capabilities of institutions through the establishment of centers that effectively integrate education and research.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
Subawards are not planned for this award.
With support from the Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology (CREST), this project aims to address a critical challenge in the U.S. semiconductor industry, enabling low cost yet high-performance computation.
Innovation in semiconductors is essential for modern computing.
This project will transform research and education at Boise State University by integrating semiconductor science into classrooms and increasing student engagement.
In collaboration with industry partners, the project will provide hands-on experience in semiconductor fabrication, device innovation, and computational materials design.
This approach will support economic growth, strengthen national security, and inspire the next generation of engineers, ensuring Idaho and the nation remain leaders in semiconductor technology.
The project bridges research and workforce development through four areas: machine learning-driven materials discovery, atomic-scale thin-film fabrication, energy-efficient semiconductor devices, and neuromorphic computing architectures.
Researchers will develop advanced ferroelectric materials, refine nanoscale deposition techniques, and create computing systems for low-power, high-performance applications.
This research is incorporated into STEM mentorship programs, and workforce training in partnership with local industry.
In sum, the project will enhance semiconductor education and contribute to the future of microelectronics innovation.
The Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology (CREST) program provides support to enhance the research capabilities of institutions through the establishment of centers that effectively integrate education and research.
This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.
Subawards are not planned for this award.
Awardee
Funding Goals
THE GOAL OF THIS FUNDING OPPORTUNITY, "EPSCOR CENTERS OF RESEARCH EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY", IS IDENTIFIED IN THE LINK: HTTPS://WWW.NSF.GOV/PUBLICATIONS/PUB_SUMM.JSP?ODS_KEY=NSF24575
Grant Program (CFDA)
Awarding / Funding Agency
Place of Performance
Boise,
Idaho
83725-0001
United States
Geographic Scope
Single Zip Code
Related Opportunity
Boise State University was awarded
Semiconductor Innovation High-Performance Computing: EPSCOR CREST Phase I
Project Grant 2514716
worth $7,442,092
from the Division of Human Resource Development in September 2025 with work to be completed primarily in Boise Idaho United States.
The grant
has a duration of 5 years and
was awarded through assistance program 47.076 Education and Human Resources.
The Project Grant was awarded through grant opportunity EPSCoR Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology.
Status
(Ongoing)
Last Modified 8/12/25
Period of Performance
9/1/25
Start Date
8/31/30
End Date
Funding Split
$7.4M
Federal Obligation
$0.0
Non-Federal Obligation
$7.4M
Total Obligated
Activity Timeline
Additional Detail
Award ID FAIN
2514716
SAI Number
None
Award ID URI
SAI EXEMPT
Awardee Classifications
Public/State Controlled Institution Of Higher Education
Awarding Office
491106 DIVISION OF EQUITY FOR EXCELLENCE IN STEM
Funding Office
491106 DIVISION OF EQUITY FOR EXCELLENCE IN STEM
Awardee UEI
HYWTVM5HNFM3
Awardee CAGE
0GMY3
Performance District
ID-02
Senators
James Risch
Michael Crapo
Michael Crapo
Modified: 8/12/25