Institute for Extreme Semiconductor Chips

Extreme semiconductor chips play a critical role in boosting the economy and improving national defense. They have the potential to positively impact a multitude of areas, like the electric grid, space travel, electric vehicles, military threat warning systems, health monitoring and health care equipment.

Developing the Next Generation of Extreme Semiconductor Chips

This institute conducts fundamental research into extreme semiconductor chips, develops prototypes of new electronic and optical chips and establishes their benefits through real-life testing. This research carried out by our interdisciplinary team of researchers will lead to next-generation prototype extreme chips which can be used as the basis for commercial advancements and real-world applications for the public good.

Meet Faculty Researchers & Team »

Extreme semiconductor chips will lead to unprecedented performance and efficiency increases in electric cars, power grids, military and consumer electronics and air-water purification systems. These next generation chips will provide tremendous opportunities for spawning new businesses, enhancing the quality of life and economic prosperity of South Carolina and maintaining the U.S.'s technical superiority for national security.

Asif Khan, Ph.D., Institute Director

The Institute's Mission

Our mission is to conduct pioneering research into third-generation extreme semiconductor materials and develop new electronic and optical chips and their packaging technology. We then transfer the technology to commercial, public good and military domains via the incubation of businesses or partnership with other U.S. businesses.

Research Areas

The institute's interdisciplinary, collaborative research areas work together to conduct comprehensive research into and development of third-generation extreme semiconductors.

SC Impact

The extreme semiconductor chips developed by our research team will lead to unprecedented energy performance and efficiency across South Carolina. While this is a state-wide research focus, certain areas of public interest will benefit greatly from this institute's work.

Economic Development
Leadership in Innovative Technology
Public Health Advancements

A Priority for the University of South Carolina

This institute is part of the university's Research Institutes Funding Program, an undertaking for top researchers in their fields across disciplines and focus areas to consciously and intentionally collaborate to uncover new approaches, breakthroughs, and real-world results in their areas of research.

These projects truly represent what a flagship research university does best: bring together experts from multiple disciplines to take on some of the biggest scientific and societal challenges of our time.

USC President Michael Amiridis

Funding Acknowledgement

Funding for this interdisciplinary research institute was generously provided by the USC Office of the President and Office of the Vice President for Research.

More About the Research Institutes Funding Program

Semiconductor Chip Research for Operation in Extreme Environments

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.