AMRC Research
The AMRC is focused on the following areas of research:
Semiconductors
It's hard to imagine modern life without the semiconductor. From a laboratory curiosity of idealistic scientists, the semiconductor—or "chip"—has grown exponentially in power and influence to touch almost every aspect of our lives. As an industry, the semiconductor world is unique. Every year, chip-makers boost performance dramatically while cutting prices, continually making high-technology goods more productive and affordable for consumers. More
Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology refers to R&D and manufacturing related to circuits, devices, and structures at dimensions of 100 nanometers (nm) and below. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter. Nanotech operates at the molecular or atomic level to create new types of strong and resilient materials, new ways to treat diseases, and innovative forms of fuels.
Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS)
Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) is an enabling technology that integrates microscopic, machine-like devices - such as sensors, valves, gears, mirrors, and actuators -- into semiconductors. These devices are created with the same materials and methods used to make the chips themselves. Already, MEMS sensing devices are used to control the deployment of airbags in cars, while MEMS switching devices can be found in optical telecommunications cables.
Information Technology/Wireless
Software technology encompasses the development and application of system software, databases, middleware, web services, algorithms and applications for business value. Wireless technology includes the development and application of hardware and software for the purpose of untethered communication.
Biotechnology
Biotechnology is the integration and application of science and engineering to life processes to solve problems or manufacture products. Applications include health care, agriculture (crops and livestock), environmental remediation, pharmaceuticals, and bioinformatics.
Advanced Energy Applications
Advanced energy technologies will provide
low-cost, environmentally friendly
energy solutions to maintain a high standard
of living for Texans. These
technologies include exploration (deep-water
drilling, recovery, down-hole sensing); production
(solar, wind, biomass, fossil fuels); conversion
(fuel cells, high-efficiency engines); storage
(superconducting inductors, batteries); transmission
(electric grid improvement, hydrogen
pipeline; and consumption (efficient lighting
and air conditioning).