Future Students

Students performing research at HiDEC have a unique opportunity to gain valuable hands-on exposure to microcircuit fabrication tools and processes. The experience gained at HiDEC has proved valuable for many students entering industry, as well as those that remain at the University to perform research as a graduate student.

Graduate Students

HiDEC does not support graduate students directly; they are typically supported by their Major Professor through a Research Contract or other funding source.  If you planning to  Graduate School and are interested in performing research at HiDEC, talk with your student advisor or contact your departmental office about possible funding opportunities.

HiDEC staff, via appointment, provides training for all processes and tools at the Center.  Students must be "certified" before they can operate equipment alone, otherwise Center facilities are open for student use 24/7.

Undergraduate Students

Due to course loads, undergraduate students typically do not have sufficient time to spend performing research.  However, undergraduates that are interested can apply to the NSF-sponsored Research Education for Undergraduates (REU) program in various departments at the University of Arkansas.  This program, held during the summer, provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to work in various labs (including HiDEC).  Much more information about REU program goals is available online.

Undergraduate students, especially those planning on entering graduate school, are encouraged to take ELEG5243L (discussed below).

Courses

A number of Electrical Engineering courses use the facilities at HiDEC to fulfill course objectives.

In the Microcircuit Fabrication Techniques and Procedures (ELEG5243L) taught by HiDEC staff members students receive hands-on training and learn to operate nearly all the equipment found in the clean room.  Other courses taught by Electrical Engineering faculty include: IC Fabrication Lab (ELEG5293L), and Solar Cell Fabrication (ELEG4223).

Students that are planning to perform lab research during graduate school are encouraged to take ELEG5243L as soon as possible.  Doing so familiarizes students with lab safety procedures and processes and greatly reduces the "learning curve" they must address when first joining a research group.