Past program schedules

History

A flagship initiative developed and led by Professor Tony Low, the “Quantum + Chips” summer school is a two-week immersive program designed for undergraduates from a wide range of disciplines (e.g., chemistry, mathematics, engineering, physics). The inaugural “Quantum + Chips” program took place in January 2023 under the title “Quantum Phenomena to Computing Devices.” Its updated name better reflects the breadth of topics covered during the 10-day session. Since its launch, the program has attracted about 50 students each year, offering them broad exposure to emerging computing technologies and the latest developments in semiconductor science and engineering. Participants attend lectures, engage in hands-on lab activities and visits, and tour company sites to gain a comprehensive understanding of quantum physics, its potential, and its practical applications. Going forward, the program will be offered annually each summer—typically from late July to early August—with segments led by faculty and scientists from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, alongside prominent industry experts. It is supported by various funding agencies, including the National Science Foundation, the Korea Science Foundation, Kyung Hee University (KSF), Global Quantum Leap (NSF), the National Nanotechnology Coordinated Infrastructure (NSF), DMREF (NSF), and, most recently, the NSF Future of Semiconductor program.

Program Overview

• Holistic Semiconductor Education
  The summer school takes a comprehensive approach by blending lectures, hands-on computer labs, fabrication facility tours, and industry talks. Participants learn from experts in academia and industry, gaining a robust understanding of semiconductor technologies. Companies such as Google, Quantinuum, Intel, SkyWater, Seagate, Nvidia, and Honeywell have contributed through technical presentations, career talks, and site visits. Beyond the curriculum, the program fosters a supportive community: students form lasting professional networks that often extend well beyond the two-week experience.

• Commitment to Innovation
  At the University of Minnesota, we are dedicated not only to educating the next generation of semiconductor professionals but also to cultivating a vibrant innovation ecosystem that connects academia, industry, government, and NGOs. Initiatives like the “Quantum + Chips” summer school help bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications, driving both innovation and economic growth in the semiconductor sector. The concept of co-design—encompassing materials synthesis, device fabrication, modeling, and characterization—stands as a core principle of this program, enriching students’ learning experiences and preparing them for impactful roles in industry.

• Long-Term Vision
  Our overarching goal is to nurture a thriving, local innovation community that links a growing pool of talented students with both local and global industries. By strengthening these connections, we ensure that the next generation of semiconductor professionals can lead meaningful advancements in the field.

Broader Impacts

Our summer school addresses critical workforce gaps in the U.S. semiconductor sector and fosters excitement for “deep technologies” through its holistic design:

• Holistic Perspective: By integrating lectures, computer labs, fabrication tours, and technical talks, we present a comprehensive overview of semiconductor technologies, enabling students to discover areas that resonate with their interests.

• Industry Collaboration: Talks by technical experts, recruitment sessions, and site visits showcase real-world applications and potential career paths.

• Networking: The dormitory experience and social activities encourage students to form lasting professional and personal relationships. The inclusion of international students adds a valuable global perspective.

• Inspiration: Perhaps most importantly, the program aims to inspire. By exposing students to frontier technologies—spintronics, Ising computing, optical computing, and quantum computing—we highlight the fun and innovative side of semiconductor physics and engineering.

Previous Summer Schools

Spring 2023, Summer 2023, Summer 2024