ISHM EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
1850 Centennial Park Drive, Suite 105
Reston, VA 22091
Tel. 703·758·1060 Fax. 703·758·1066

ISHM EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
STUDENT RESEARCH GRANT GUIDELINES
1996 - 1997

In 1986, the International Society for Hybrid Microelectronics, now known as ISHM - The Microelectronics Society, formed the ISHM Educational Foundation. The Foundation is dedicated to the long-term goal of promoting development in microelectronics technology, encouraging leadership in the microelectronics industry and promoting emerging advanced technologies.

Although all pertinent fields of microelectronics technology will be considered for Foundation support, preference will be given to materials and manufacturing processes most closely aligned with hybrid microelectronics and multichip modules. This includes research in ceramic and polymer materials, packaging techniques, interconnection techniques, thick film - thin film material technologies, general improvements in computer assisted manufacturing technologies, productivity enhancements through improved equipment and manufacturing training.

Furthermore, the project should demonstrate potential for transfer to and utilization by industry. The Foundation encourages new improved measurement and materials methods that are transferable to industry in both long and short-term applications. Above all, research should encourage the pursuit of a career in microelectronics by developing the students technical and professional background and knowledge.

Research will be published upon completion, therefore it will be necessary for the work to be completed in a publishable manner. Students are further strongly encouraged to consider presenting their research progress/results through ISHM technical meetings and publications.

Who may apply for funding

The Foundation encourages proposals authored by U.S. citizens or permanent residents pursuing advanced degrees (Master's, PhD) in engineering, materials sciences, and related technical disciplines impacting microelectronics technology. Applicants must be affiliated with an accredited college or university which supports the student's efforts through provision of a faculty advisor and/or suitable facilities and materials to conduct research.

Proposal Responsibility

In order to fulfill it's mission of developing professional skills and technical knowledge of future scientists and engineers, the Foundation requests that proposals be authored by the student. Assistance may be provided by a member of the university faculty. The student is responsible for the conduct of the research and the preparation of both the mid-term and final reports.

Faculty advisors should also submit a written letter of recommendation/support of the student proposal along with a statement outlining the university's capability to support the research.

Time Period/Grant Amounts

For the 1996 - 1997 academic year, the Foundation will award 10 - 12 grants in the amount of $6,000 cash per student with installments of $3,000 to be made in the fall (typically late September) and $3,000 to be made in the spring (typically March) semesters.

The final number of grants to be awarded will be determined by the Committee of the Trustees based upon recommendations by the Grant Evaluation Committee. Although the Foundation recognizes that many graduate research efforts require long-term study efforts, limited resources preclude multi-year commitments. However, previous grant recipients may apply for continued funding the following academic year.

Proposal Evaluation Procedure

Each proposal receives peer review by the Foundation's Grant Evaluation Committee, which is composed entirely of technical professionals from the industry, academia and the government sector.

The basis for evaluation for funding includes:

  1. Technical approach.
  2. Student qualifications and university support.
  3. Potential for enhancement of the student's professional skills.
  4. Potential for technology transfer to the industrial community.

Overhead Policy

Because of the limited size of the grants, the Foundation does not allow the extraction of university overhead or administrative costs. One hundred percent of the grant must be utilized in the development and implementation of the student's research and professional skills.

Deadline for Applications

Applications for the ISHM Educational Foundation Grants must be received by the Foundation office no later than April 24, 1996. The address is ISHM Educational Foundation, 1850 Centennial Park Drive, Suite 105, Reston, VA 22091. Faxed proposals are acceptable to meet the deadline but an original is necessary for final evaluation. Fax : (703) 758-1066. Notification of the Foundation's decision on submitted applications will be sent by mid-June, 1996.

Suggested Proposal Outline

The main body of the proposal should include as many details as possible for the Committee to base their recommendations. You should also follow a similar outline:

Where to Submit Proposals

Proposals should be mailed to: 
 Silas Deane, Director
ISHM Educational Foundation
1850 Centennial Park Drive
Suite 105
Reston, VA 22091
Telephone: (800) 535-ISHM Fax: (703) 758-1066.
The Foundation requires submission of the original proposal printed on one side with original signatures on the enclosed student profile form. Applicants should also submit a resume or biographical background along with a brief letter outlining how ISHM's support will assist in the development of both their professional and personal goals.

1995 - 1996 ISHM EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
AWARD RECIPIENTS