Advancing Microelectronics Education and Research
The Institute for Microelectronics Education and Research (MER) works with regional industry to expand the microelectronic and semiconductor workforce and manufacturing. Investments from stakeholders help the MER Institute to prepare students for careers related to microelectronics, as well as opportunities to work closely with faculty on leading research.
New Highlight!
The MER Institute teamed up with Boise State’s GIMM program to create a beautiful, informative, and fun video to help teach students and all audience about the microchip fabrication process.
Watch the video to learn about how semiconductors and microchips are made:
The MER Institute: Who and What
Creation of the Institute
The CHIPS Act and Science Act (below) was created to bring semiconductor manufacturing and jobs back to the United States. This act, in addition to numerous investments and grants, led to the establishment of Boise State University’s MER Institute. The purpose is twofold: create education pathways in both K-12 schools and universities to teach students about semiconductors, and to provide channels for these students to enter the workforce.
Through industry partnerships, investments, and collaboration, the MER Institute continually works to support this nation-wide initiative.
The CHIPS Act
The MER Institute began with The Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act, passed and funded by Congress in 2022.
This act presents a once in a generation opportunity for Boise State University, the state of Idaho, and the Nation.
Investments from this act will boost domestic semiconductor research, development, and production, ensuring the United States leads in technology used in everything from mobile phones to defense systems.