Call for Research in Compact Modeling

Overview

In Semiconductor Research Corporation (SRC) Global Research Collaboration (GRC), Device Sciences is soliciting white papers in the area of Compact Modeling. The principal goal of this industry-driven research is to generate ideas and solutions in compact modeling of advanced semiconductor devices.

This Call, issued to universities worldwide, may be addressed by an individual investigator or a research team. In a competitive procurement leading to a 3-year research contract, our selection process is carried out in two stages. A successful white paper will be selected and result in an invitation to submit a full proposal for further consideration. The number and size of the contracts awarded will be determined by the amount of available funds (totaling ~$400K per year) and by the number of high-quality proposals received. The anticipated funding level of each effort is in the range of ~$50,000 to ~$100,000 per year (which should include university overhead charges). Proposals carrying funding leverage are strongly encouraged. (Leverage funding is support from other funding sources related and beneficial to the proposed work.)

Research Needs

Specific and prioritized Research Needs are summarized in a report (research needs document) recently prepared by the Device Sciences' Compact Modeling TAB (Technical Advisory Board). The table in the report summarizes all interested research topics related to compact modeling. They are grouped under four categories: (1) Digital devices, (2) Analog devices, (3) Reliability and variability, and (4) Tool and methodology. Also indicated is the consensus of priorities from our sponsor companies. Researchers are advised to read the short Research Needs document before writing the white papers. We encourage submissions in the areas of high priority and they will be weighted more favorably, although all submissions will be considered.

Research focusing in the areas of device and process modeling and simulation (TCAD or Technology Computer Aided Design) is addressed in a separate call and is not part of this solicitation.(For future calls, please go to Funding Opportunities)

White Paper Guidelines

White Papers are limited to 2 pages, using at least 10-point font size, and must be submitted via the SRC Web site. Non-compliance with all guidelines will be excluded from consideration. White Papers must be submitted via the SRC GRC Web site by Thursday, JULY 16, 2009, 3 PM EST/12 PM PST. White papers not meeting these requirements will not be considered.

Please include and address the following:

• Identifying information: Project title. Principal investigator's contacts (telephone number, mailing address, and e-mail address). Investigator(s) and university.
• Background: Emphasize area and problem to be addressed; identify the best-matched topic (e.g., 1c, 2b) in the table of Research Needs; describe why research should be performed; rationalize value in terms of semiconductor industry needs.
• Approach: Present your strategy for addressing the problem; describe important findings from your research to date; state the role of this research in advancing knowledge and state-of-the-art.
• Objective and Results: What do you plan to accomplish in a 3-year program; what is anticipated output of a successful effort?
• Funding Request Amount: Plan for 3-year program funded by a research contract. Amount should include overhead charged by your institution. Number and degree of students supported.
• Funding Leverage Amount: Leverage funds applicable to the proposed research.
• IP: Identify any pre-existing intellectual property new results will be based on.

Awardees will be expected to:

• Disclose blocking background intellectual property
• Update information about participating students
• Submit publications resulting from sponsored research
• Participate in annual research reviews
• Provide annual reports and pre-defined deliverables

Timetable and Deadlines

Please direct all technical questions to Kwok Ng (kwok.ng@src.org).
All other questions and responses should be directed to Jacqui Hall (jhall@src.org).