Research Area C – Overarching
One of the important tasks for the architecture of novel circuit functionality is the general or in other words, non-reconfigurable, routing and the fabrication of the metallization layers. To pay attention to this, we focus the research in Research Area C on processes for 3D structure integration as well as the modeling and simulation of the devices including the experimental verification. Evidently, this Research Area has a strong link to the Research Areas A and B as only mature devices will be implemented into the circuit and system design and the design requirements and condition rules need to be matched. This orchestration will be implemented in the very beginning of the initial phase of this TRR and is of high importance for the successful communication and evaluation of the technical results. A clear path for the system approach and the knowledge of alternative options for materials, devices and the system implementation make this TRR resilient against delays in fabrication, obstacles in device functionality and too high expectations for the use in applications. Another strength of this collaborative work here is that we can combine early research approaches with approaches that have a more mature technology level and bring them into play on demonstrator platforms and bringing the fabrication tools on both sites together.
MGK: Integrated Research Training Group
The MGK will aim at (i) educating and promoting a future generation of researchers, who will disseminate the knowledge gained within the TRR to academia or industry and (ii) bridging the different partner locations and disciplines. The success of our TRR will crucially depend on Well educated, flexible and highly skilled young researchers, which are able to adapt to the multidisciplinary, multicultural environment and to fully use the infrastructure and competences at all sites. In order to explore the special setting of a TRR, i.e., the multiple institutions involved, all PhD students will be supervised by two PIs from different sites and will be required to spend regular time at the collaborating institution. Courses with microelectronics companies in the Dresden region, special courses on entrepreneurship and one-to-one mentoring by PIs will be further features of the MGK.
Central Tasks of the TRR
This project includes the general organization, administration, and management of the central funds (e.g., travel, student assistants, network funds, etc.) as well as the Research Data Management (RDM) of Active-3D. A dedicated position will manage the RDM of the TRR. The heterogeneity of the structure and formats of the used data both with respect to sites and labs as well as with respect to the different abstraction layers of the system make it necessary to evaluate and streamline RDM initially to form a strong basis for a dedicated research data management program in Phase 2 of the TRR. The Z project will also focus on strengthening, enhancing, and supporting the inter-project collaborations. Tightening the links between the two sites Dresden and Aachen will always be the focus of this project’s activities. Regular seminars, assemblies, and research festivals will be organized as well as various events/activities to disseminate the research results in the scientific community but also to the interested public. Gaining national and international visibility will be supported by the organization of colloquia as well as representation at relevant conferences. Furthermore, the organization of all aspects concerning the Mercator Fellows as well as the gender equality and diversity promotion measures will be handled in this project. Administration personnel at both universities, TUD and RWTH Aachen, will work closely together to tie the sites together.