Appropriation Bill Supporting Next Generation Semiconductor Research is Advancing

Lewis University is included in Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations bills advanced by the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee and proposed to the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee. The bills were spearheaded by U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Lauren Underwood (IL-14).

The Senate Appropriations Committee, of which Sen. Durbin is a member, advanced a Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations bill for Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies that supports semiconductor modernization. The proposed bill includes $900,000 to Lewis University to upgrade instrumentation and facilities for research on novel processes that impact next-generation semiconductor device fabrication.    

As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Underwood submitted “Advancing Research in Next-Generation Semiconductor Manufacturing” for consideration for Community Project Funding in FY2024. The request includes $950,000 to support workforce development and research innovation in semiconductor manufacturing in a state-of-the-art laboratory at Lewis University. The project would continue the collaboration of Lewis University students, scientists, and semiconductor manufacturers to improve production processes and meet workforce needs in the industry. The innovations will help advance innovative technologies in Illinois and boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing, which is critical to domestic economic growth and national security.

“This initiative would not have been possible without the incredible student researchers   I have had the opportunity to collaborate with since 2009. Their success presenting at domestic and international conferences led to collaborations with key industry partners which was essential to advancing our work,” Dr. Jason Keleher, chair and professor of the Lewis University Chemistry Department, commented. The Keleher Research Group is collaborating with the Lewis University Office of Sponsored Programs to secure more resources for students conducting this valuable and respected research.

Lewis University is an innovative Catholic university offering market-relevant undergraduate and graduate programs to 6,500 students. Sponsored by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, Lewis University is nationally recognized for preparing intellectually engaged, ethically grounded, and globally-connected graduates who impact the world for the better. Visit www.lewisu.edu for further information.