$950K In Federal Funding Supports Semiconductor Research At Lewis

ROMEOVILLE, IL — U.S. Representative Lauren Underwood recently presented Lewis University with a symbolic check of $950,000 to support innovation in semiconductor manufacturing through research at Lewis University’s semiconductor innovation and workforce development center.

"It has been my true honor to be able to submit and shepherd this critical funding for our community through this process," said Underwood as she spoke with Lewis University students before touring their lab facilities, according to a release from the university.

Since spring 2024, when the funding was secured through the U.S. Congress Community Project Funding allocation in the 2024 appropriations bills, Lewis University already has made much progress in improving production processes and meeting workforce needs in the industry, the university said.

“Federal support has allowed us to pursue groundbreaking advancements in semiconductor technology, and for that, we're profoundly grateful,” said Jason Keleher, chair and professor of the Lewis University Chemistry Department.

Close to 200 Lewis University students have worked on this research with Keleher in the last 14 years, the university said. The Keleher Research Group at Lewis University is a leading driver for fundamental ultra-clean processing and surface preparation technology research.

“With this support, we've been able to acquire cutting-edge materials and equipment that directly aligns with industry needs, which has enabled us to continue working on groundbreaking research in areas like chemical, mechanical planarization and post-CMP cleaning processes,” said Lewis University Graduate Student Elizabeth McDonnell.