GlobalFoundries MIT Collaboration on Photonic AI Chips

GlobalFoundries has strengthened its collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the field of silicon photonics. This partnership comes on the heels of ST's foray into the silicon photonics market for AI chips, aiming to leverage photonic interconnect technology to enhance interconnect performance and reduce power consumption.

The newly established master research agreement will encompass crucial semiconductor technologies at MIT's Microsystems Technology Laboratories (MTL) and GlobalFoundries' research and development team, GF Labs. The initial focus of the research will revolve around AI and other applications, with the first projects utilizing GF's distinctive silicon photonics technology. This technology seamlessly integrates RF SOI, CMOS, and optical features on a single chip through GF's 22FDX platform, catering to ultra-low power consumption requirements for intelligent edge devices.

Furthermore, GlobalFoundries is actively engaged in the production of the Omega photonic chipset for PsiQuantum, a project aimed at constructing a quantum computer with a million qubits. This endeavor underscores GF's commitment to pushing the boundaries of technological innovation and advancing the realm of semiconductor research.

ST has also re-entered the silicon photonics arena with plans for mass production at Crolles, signaling a resurgence of interest and investment in this cutting-edge technology. The collaboration between MIT MTL and GlobalFoundries symbolizes the synergy between academia and industry in addressing the most critical challenges in semiconductor research.

Tomás Palacios, MTL Director and Clarence J. LeBel Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the potential for significant research breakthroughs in GF's essential chip technologies for AI. Palacios will spearhead the research initiative as the MIT faculty lead, fostering a dynamic environment for innovation and knowledge exchange.

Gregg Bartlett, Chief Technology Officer at GlobalFoundries, emphasized the collaborative effort's importance in driving research advancements and nurturing talent within the semiconductor industry. The partnership not only underscores GF's dedication to innovation but also underscores its commitment to fostering the next generation of industry leaders.

Prof. Anantha Chandrakasan, Dean of MIT's School of Engineering and Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer, lauded the collaboration as a platform for MIT's research community to leverage GlobalFoundries' expertise and cutting-edge process technologies. This strategic alliance aims to catalyze transformative innovations in microelectronics across various domains while equipping students with the skills needed for future workforce roles.

MIT staff actively participate in GlobalFoundries' University Partnership Program, engaging in joint semiconductor research and prototyping initiatives. Additionally, the collaboration extends to various workforce development programs, including joint efforts through the Northeast Microelectronics Coalition and the US Department of Defense Microelectronics Commons Hub, further solidifying the bond between academia and industry.

For more information, visit mtl.mit.edu.