NCKU Delegation Explores Semiconductor Collaboration with the University of Arizona

Delegates from the Academy of Innovative Semiconductor and Sustainable Manufacturing (AISSM) at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) in Taiwan recently visited the University of Arizona to explore opportunities for student mobility and other collaborations. The visit brought together experts from both institutions, fostering discussions to bridge an international pathway for students to advance their careers in the semiconductor industry.

The delegation, led by Dean Su of NCKU AISSM, engaged with U of A counterparts in electrical engineering, optical sciences, chemical engineering, and engineering science. Their visit included in-depth tours of cutting-edge research facilities and collaborative meetings with prominent faculty members.

The group began their visit with a welcome and tours of the Optical Science Clean Room Lab and the Multiphoton Microscopy and High-Power Lasers Lab located in the Meinel Optical Sciences Building. Faculty from the Center for Semiconductor Manufacturing and Optical Sciences showcased the U of A’s advanced capabilities in semiconductor research and nanofabrication and highlighted the university’s strengths in precision imaging and laser technologies relevant to semiconductor innovation.

A key component of the visit was a roundtable discussion in the Grand Challenges Building with U of A faculty members who maintain strong ties to Taiwan and NCKU, including Chang-Chun "Max" Chen, Postdoctoral Research Associate in Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Shu-Fen Wung, Professor of Nursing and Electrical and Computer Engineering. These connections further emphasized the potential for collaborative research and student exchange initiatives.

The day’s meetings concluded with a College of Engineering meet and greet. They were welcomed by Mark Van Dyke, Associate Dean for Research in the College of Engineering; Michael Wu, Department Head of Electrical and Computer Engineering; Kim Ogden, Department Chair of Chemical and Environmental Engineering; and Sammy Tin, Department Head of Materials Science and Engineering and the Patrick R. Taylor Endowed Department Leadership Chair.

“The collaboration between NCKU AISSM and the University of Arizona presents an exciting opportunity to strengthen international pathways for students,” said Assistant Director for China and East Asia Programs Min Zhou. 

The discussions during the visit laid the groundwork for future initiatives, including the potential for a student exchange program. Both sides expressed enthusiasm for continuing the conversation and developing collaborative projects that support innovation and global career development for our students.