The Center for Information Technology Research in the Interest of Society and the Banatao Institute (CITRIS) invite applications and nominations for the Costas John Spanos Semiconductor Manufacturing Awards, established to encourage and recognize outstanding graduate student research in semiconductor devices, technology, design, and manufacturing.
Made possible by a $1 million philanthropic endowment, the awards support the next generation of innovators addressing critical challenges in semiconductor manufacturing — an industry projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2030. As global demand accelerates for AI, quantum computing and advanced manufacturing, this award invests directly in graduate researchers driving breakthroughs that strengthen U.S. competitiveness and resilience.
Each year, four Ph.D. students from UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Merced and UC Santa Cruz will be selected to receive a $10,000 award package, including travel, professional development and research support. An annual showcase event will highlight the recipients’ achievements, foster collaboration with industry and build a vibrant community advancing semiconductor innovation across the UC system.
Applications are invited from eligible Ph.D. students conducting research in semiconductor devices, technology, design or manufacturing. Nominations from advisors familiar with the student’s work are also encouraged.
Read the full RFP and submit by Dec. 16.
For questions about eligibility or submission, please contact seedteam@citris-uc.org.