Onsemi, a leader in intelligent power and sensing technologies, is investing $8 million to address AI and electrified power demands.

Onsemi announced on the 22nd that it will establish a wide bandgap materials research center in cooperation with Stony Brook University.

The two companies will invest $8 million in the center, part of a $20 million strategic partnership with Empire State Development to promote New York as a hub for power semiconductor innovation.

The new research center focuses on strengthening basic research on wide-bandgap materials and device implementation technologies, including silicon carbide (SiC).

The goal is to dramatically improve the energy efficiency and reliability of power semiconductors in response to the global megatrend of accelerating increases in electricity demand, such as AI data centers and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

The facility is scheduled to be fully operational in early 2027 and will maximize research capabilities with dedicated laboratories for material development, device integration, and performance characterization, as well as cutting-edge equipment.

“Advanced power semiconductors are key to enabling widespread adoption of AI and electrification,” said Dinesh Ramanathan, senior vice president of corporate strategy at Onsemi. “The new center will help us address some of the most important global megatrends.” He emphasized that “we will accelerate innovation in the field.”

“Stony Brook University’s state-of-the-art research facility is the next step in rebuilding our chip industry and strengthening our national security,” said New York Governor Cathy Hockel. “It will play a critical role in establishing New York as the semiconductor epicenter of the United States.”

Based on this collaboration, Stony Brook University will develop an undergraduate minor, graduate master’s degree, and semiconductor certification program to train the next generation of wide-bandgap experts.

“Our public-private partnership with ONSemi drives both technological innovation and economic development,” said new Chancellor Andrea Goldsmith.

The center's research is led by Michael Dudley, professor of materials science and chemical engineering at Stony Brook University, and is joined by professors Balaji Ragothamachar and Dilip Gusape, who will lead the development of SiC growth technology and high-performance power semiconductor devices.