The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, the Middle East’s first graduate research institution dedicated to alternative energy, environmental technologies and sustainability, and the Advanced Technology Investment Company (ATIC), today announced an Abu Dhabi-based, world class, research- centric Master’s in Microsystems degree program that will begin in the fall 2010 school year.

Developed in collaboration with the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the new program’s coursework and curriculum will also provide joint research opportunities for faculty. Through this partnership, ATIC will support the development of a semiconductor "clean room" and associated laboratories at Masdar Institute’s facility to be located in Masdar City, the world’s first sustainable city, fully powered by renewable energy.

"This program is an important milestone for both partners as it will contribute to building highly skilled human capital for Abu Dhabi which is making a significant investment in semiconductor manufacturing in an effort to create a knowledge-led economy, " said Dr. John Perkins, Provost of Masdar Institute.

"Energy is one of the most critical issues facing the world," said Ibrahim Ajami, Chief Executive Officer of ATIC. "Semiconductors play a key role in all phases, from energy generation - especially renewable energy generation - to distribution and consumption. Advances in semiconductor research can significantly impact the globe’s energy footprint, an issue of critical importance that can help make Abu Dhabi a future hub of semiconductor innovation."

The Microsystems MSc graduates of Masdar Institute will have globally-relevant skills. The coursework, developed in collaboration with MIT and with the support of ATIC, will include modules on nanoprocessing technology, digital systems laboratories, integrated microelectronic devices and the physics of micro-fabrication. As part of the program, the research being conducted in collaboration with the semiconductor industry will provide Masdar Institute faculty and students with the opportunity to develop, pilot and scale solutions applicable to solving the problems of energy supply, demand and climate change.
 

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