Research/Translation
Advancing Semiconductor Technologies in the Northwest (ASTN)
Historic Pacific Northwest Semiconductor Technology Collaboration
The entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Pacific Northwest is strong and growing, but to our knowledge this effort marks the first time in our region’s history that major research universities have partnered with industry, government, national laboratories, and nonprofits to develop a more cohesive semiconductor technology collaboration for economic development. Our ecosystem accelerates translation through integrative programs that support the full cycle from business case development to business funding.
Existing Talent-Development Models
ASTN enables partners to build upon and democratize access to existing successful talent-development models, like those in the Portland, Boise and Seattle regions. The result would be a significant expansion of the Northwest talent pool with a special focus on equity and inclusion across racial, gender, socio-economic, and regional dimensions.
ASTN Characteristics and Workforce Development
Previously, private sector-led innovation efforts in the Northwest have not effectively integrated strategic public sector and academic institution involvement. Through ASTN, we will fully align and integrate the public and private sector’s innovation efforts and support— which will enable breakthrough innovations, spinouts, startups and workforce-related activity — and lead to a prosperous future for state, regional and national economies.
Use-Inspired Research Efforts
Based on a recent workshop, ASTN will focus use-inspired research efforts primarily on Semiconductors, Nanolithography, Memory, More than Moore, and Computation. Our focus is on identifying new partners throughout the Northwest region and add strategic partners outside the region with unique capabilities and/or resources.