IIT Madras, Applied Materials India partner to drive semiconductor research

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has expanded its partnership with Applied Materials India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Applied Materials, Inc., to advance semiconductor research and workforce training.

As part of this collaboration, IIT Madras will deploy the foundational software framework of Applied Materials’ AppliedTwin platform, a digital twin technology that models and optimizes semiconductor manufacturing equipment and processes.

The partnership supports IIT Madras’ plan to set up a semiconductor fabrication facility in collaboration with the Government of Tamil Nadu. It will help researchers use digital tools to simulate and analyse semiconductor process parameters before building physical systems. This approach will enable better design, testing, and optimisation of fabrication processes, improving efficiency and reducing development time.

The AppliedTwin framework supports collaboration among suppliers, government, customers, and research institutions. It includes software such as ACE+, which models components and subsystems, and TOPO+, which simulates semiconductor topography and processes.

Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said, “This initiative is a transformative step toward preparing an industry-ready workforce and aligns strongly with India’s semiconductor mission.”

Further, Avi Avula, Country President, Applied Materials India, added, “By deploying the foundational AppliedTwin framework, we are equipping future engineers and researchers with the tools to engage deeply with advanced semiconductor technologies.”