Iswdp
Iswdp
Development Program
Shaping the Global Semiconductor Landscape: India Leads with Innovation and Expertise.
Collaborate, Innovate, and Transform with the India Semiconductor Workforce
Development Program.
Register Now
About this Program
The India Semiconductor Workforce Development Program: A Global
Vanguard
In today’s swiftly evolving tech landscape, semiconductors emerge as the cornerstone not merely of digital
devices but of revolutionary technologies that are reshaping our world. They are essential for the
development and deployment of innovations that push the boundaries of what technology can achieve. In
light of this critical role, a landmark collaboration between the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc),
Synopsys Inc., USA, and Samsung Semiconductor India Research (SSIR) has given rise to the India
Semiconductor Workforce Development Program (ISWDP). This initiative stands as a testament to the
strategic importance of fostering a skilled workforce that can keep pace with global semiconductor
demands. This partnership also opens doors to industry-sponsored fellowships. The merit-based fellowships
offered by Samsung are designed to recognize and reward exceptional talent among participants, making the
program even more attractive. But why is this program pivotal, and how does it extend its relevance beyond
the borders of India to the global stage? Visit ISWDP (https://iisc-iswdp.org/about.php) to discover more
about our mission and vision.
Furthermore, ISWDP also bridges the gap between academic theories and real-world applications. The
curriculum is crafted to overwhelm and fascinate participants to pursue a career in semiconductors, to think
beyond textbooks, and to understand the intricacies involved in the development of semiconductor
technology. The live virtual program comprises four levels, i.e., Level 1, Level 2, Advance, and Custom.
Launched in March 2024, the program runs 4 cohorts throughout the year (view the schedule here:
https://iisc-iswdp.org/schedule.php). The program has successfully completed three cohorts with over 1500
participants from both industry and academia. To read what our participants have to say, click here or scan
the QR Code.
We are dedicated to creating educational experiences that are not just informative but truly transformative,
enabling students and professionals to grasp the intricacies of semiconductor technologies and their
applications. Our program is crafted to inspire curiosity and drive innovation, ensuring that participants are
well-equipped to contribute to and lead in the rapidly evolving tech world.
For a deeper understanding of our ambitious vision and the strategic expansion plans set to unfold over the
next few years, we invite you to read the detailed interview published by Electronics For You:
https://www.electronicsforu.com/technology-trends/interviews/we-intend-to-expose-5000-people-to-chip-
design-development-manufacturing-processes-in-three-years.
03 Our Objectives
The India Semiconductor Workforce Development Program is strategically designed to achieve critical goals
that support both the growth of India's semiconductor industry and the global technological landscape:
• Developing Skilled Professionals: At the core of our mission is the commitment to cultivate a robust
pipeline of skilled and highly inspired professionals. Through innovative education that blends rigorous
academic coursework with practical, hands-on training, and active industry collaboration, we aim to
equip participants with the advanced skills necessary to drive forward India’s semiconductor industry.
Our comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also capable of
contributing to and leading in a highly competitive field.
• Cultivating Future Leaders: We are dedicated to inspiring and preparing the next generation for a future
in semiconductors—this includes students, faculty, engineers, and professionals. Our program is
designed to foster expertise, encourage innovation, and develop the skills necessary for global
leadership. By exposing participants to the frontiers of semiconductor technology and its applications,
we aim to ignite a lifelong passion for this dynamic field, setting them on a path to becoming pioneers
of technological advancement.
• Bridging Talent Gaps: A key objective of ISWDP is to serve as a bridge between industry demands and
academic output. Having closely worked with semiconductor fabs and various development centers, we
have identified the specific skills and capabilities required by the industry. Our program is tailored to
prepare individuals who not only meet these requirements but are also primed for further training and
specialization.
Together, these objectives underscore our dedication to enriching the semiconductor ecosystem with
talented individuals who are prepared to innovate, lead, and excel at a global level.
Semiconductors are the cornerstone of modern technology, indispensable across sectors from consumer
electronics to national defense systems. In recent years, the global demand for skilled semiconductor
professionals has surged as technology becomes increasingly integral to our lives and industries. This
escalating demand, coupled with India's proactive strides in semiconductor fabrication and manufacturing,
underscores the critical need for initiatives like the India Semiconductor Workforce Development Program
(ISWDP). It’s worth highlighting that the ISWDP isn't merely a reactionary measure to the current global
semiconductor workforce shortage; it's a forward-thinking solution that prepares India to meet both current
and future challenges in the semiconductor sector. By 2030, the program is poised to significantly bolster the
pool of skilled professionals, ready to address and propel the global semiconductor landscape.
Leveraging the Indian Institute of Science's (IISc) century-long legacy of academic excellence and its
distinction as an Institute of Eminence, the ISWDP is uniquely positioned to nurture exceptional talent. This
talent development is aligned with the needs of semiconductor fabs in India, reducing dependency on
international imports and enhancing domestic capabilities. The program’s curriculum is meticulously
designed to provide undergraduate and postgraduate students with practical, hands-on training in
semiconductor process and device design skills required in semiconductor product development. Moreover,
The ISWDP is committed to doing more than just filling jobs or training engineers; it aims to cultivate the next
generation of leaders who will drive India to a prominent position in the competitive global semiconductor
industry. This commitment has gained renewed vigor following recognition and support from the Honorable
Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. With this endorsement, the ISWDP
is more dedicated than ever to providing comprehensive training to students and professionals, ensuring they
are well-prepared to meet the demands and challenges of the semiconductor industry.
05 Benefits for Industries and Academic Institutions
The India Semiconductor Workforce Development Program (ISWDP) is a cornerstone for individuals and
institutions aiming to excel in the semiconductor industry. It offers an avenue to delve deep into
semiconductor technology, equipping participants with both foundational and advanced knowledge. This
comprehensive program, supported by IISc and industry leaders such as Synopsys and Samsung
Semiconductor India Research, offers a multifaceted approach to learning, blending academic rigor with
practical industry insights. Whether you're a fresh graduate or an industry professional, the program offers
something for everyone, ensuring a clear path to leadership in the semiconductor domain
A. For Students
The program won't just teach; it will inspire. It will encourage students to visualize the processes and to
connect the dots between what they learn and how it applies in the industry. It gives practical experience in
semiconductor design and process, preparing the students to tackle industry challenges immediately upon
graduation. The program benefits students through:
• Hands-On Learning: Students engage with advanced computational tools like TCAD (Technology
Computer-Aided Design), providing a real-world grasp of semiconductor design and process.
• Industry-Relevant Skills: The curriculum covers the entire gamut of semiconductor development, from
fundamental concepts to complex device processes and device design techniques, ensuring that
students are well-prepared for the industry.
• Real-World Application: The integration of theoretical knowledge with practical applications allows
students to experience and solve real semiconductor problems.
• Internship Opportunities: Students can access merit-based internships in both virtual and physical
formats, complete with certifications, enhancing their practical experience and industry relevance.
• Project Implementation: The program encourages students to propose and implement their projects,
fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
• Samsung Fellowships: The merit-based fellowships offered by Samsung Semiconductor India Research
are designed to recognize and reward exceptional talent among participants. The fellowship, which is
divided into the following four grades, will be mentioned in the participation certificate.
Grade I: 100% Fee waiver on “Level 1, Level 2, and Advance” together & 75% Fee waiver on “Level
2 Hands-on and Advance Hands-on” together. This comes as a bundle package. A unique discount
code is provided to avail the Fee Waiver as part of this Fellowship.
Grade II: 75% Fee waiver on “Level 1, Level 2, and Advance” together & 75% Fee waiver on “Level
2 Hands-on and Advance Hands-on” together. This comes as a bundle package. A unique discount
code is provided to avail the Fee Waiver as part of this Fellowship.
Grade III: 65% Fee waiver on “Level 1, Level 2, and Advance” together & 50% Fee waiver on “Level
2 Hands-on and Advance Hands-on” together. Here, the “Level 1, Level 2, and Advance” training
comes as a bundle package and is mandatory, whereas the “Level 2 Hands-on and Advance
Hands-on” training is optional and comes as a separate bundle package. Two unique discount
codes are provided to avail the Fee Waiver as part of this Fellowship, one for “Level 1, Level 2, and
Advance” bundle package and another for “Level 2 Hands-on and Advance Hands-on”.
Grade IV: 50% Fee waiver on “Level 1, Level 2, and Advance” together & 50% Fee waiver on “Level
2 Hands-on and Advance Hands-on” together. Here, the “Level 1, Level 2, and Advance” training
comes as a bundle package and is mandatory, whereas the “Level 2 Hands-on and Advance
Hands-on” training is optional and comes as a separate bundle package. Two unique discount
codes are provided to avail the Fee Waiver as part of this Fellowship, one for “Level 1, Level 2, and
Advance” bundle package and another for “Level 2 Hands-on and Advance Hands-on”.
B. For Aspiring Professionals
For those already in the field or looking to enter, ISWDP, when participants credit all the offered levels,
provides tools and experiences to deepen their expertise and advance their careers:
• Interactive Sessions: Led by experts, these sessions delve into the complexities of semiconductor
processes, enhancing understanding and sparking curiosity.
• Problem-Solving Workshops: Participants tackle industry-relevant scenarios that hone their analytical
and problem-solving skills, preparing them for real-world challenges.
• Exposure to Industry Practices: Our collaborations with leading technology companies enable
participants a firsthand look at the semiconductor industry’s practices, challenges, and innovations.
• Custom Modules: Thanks to growing industry interest, ISWDP offers custom modules on specialized
topics like Fabrication, Characterization, and Packaging at no additional cost, ensuring that learning is
continually updated and relevant.
The India Semiconductor Workforce Development Program (ISWDP) transcends the traditional boundaries of
an educational initiative; it embodies a national movement poised to elevate India to a leading position in the
global semiconductor landscape. This visionary program does more than impart technical knowledge—it
inspires societal transformation and economic revitalization.
• Economic Growth: ISWDP will become a crucial pivot point for India’s economic strategy. By nurturing a
homegrown talent pool skilled in high-tech semiconductor production, the program would directly boost
India’s economic resilience. As these professionals enter the workforce, their expertise will enable the
expansion of domestic semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, reducing the nation's dependency on
semiconductor imports. This shift not only supports the local economy but also positions India as a
critical player in the global supply chain, attracting foreign investment and fostering technological
advancements.
• Innovation Ecosystem: The ripple effects of ISWDP will be profoundly felt within the innovation
ecosystem. Graduates from the program will not just be skilled in semiconductor processes and design
principles; they will also be inspired to eventually become pioneers of future technology. Trained to
acquire cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills, the spark that we produce is expected to lead them
toward taking charge of developing new technologies and innovative solutions. The contributions of
these inspired graduates would be the key to addressing some of the most pressing global challenges,
from sustainable energy solutions to advanced information technologies, thereby reinforcing India's
status as a hub of technological innovation.
• National Security: Strengthening India’s semiconductor capabilities has strategic implications beyond
economics and innovation; it is pivotal to national security. In an era where technology underpins much
of our defense infrastructure, having a robust, self-sufficient semiconductor industry safeguards India’s
technological sovereignty. This strategic autonomy is critical in maintaining security and gives the
nation a competitive edge on the global stage.
07 Why Now? Seizing the Semiconductor Renaissance
The global semiconductor industry is currently experiencing a dynamic renaissance. These tiny yet powerful
components are crucial in powering everything from our everyday smartphones to groundbreaking
technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing. This surge in demand and utility marks the
current decade, 2020-2030, as the "decade of semiconductors."
Strategic Timing for a Strategic Move: India stands at a pivotal moment in its technological evolution. With
its strategic positioning and growing capabilities in the semiconductor sector, coupled with increasing
demand from a diverse range of industries, India is on the cusp of becoming a global leader in this critical
market. The timing could not be more opportune for such an initiative as the India Semiconductor Workforce
Development Program (ISWDP).
Join us to start your journey in mastery, innovation, and global leadership as we together shape the future of
technology and create a new legacy of Indian engineering excellence in semiconductors. Register now at:
https://iswdp.registeryourseat.in/index.php
09 Collaborate Now (as an Affiliate Member) - Benefits for Academic Institutions and
Industry
ISWDP is a unique initiative in the country, offering an annual affiliate membership opportunity that promises
long-term exposure and branding for your academic institution/company. Unlike fleeting conferences and
workshops, ISWDP provides continuous visibility throughout the year, with multiple cohorts and levels under
each cohort repeating four times annually. This program serves an educational cause while offering its
sponsors and affiliate members a lasting impact. As an affiliate member of ISWDP, which is an
academia-industry-driven certification program, presents an excellent opportunity for your
institution/company to train its employees, showcase its brand, products, and developments, and efforts to
a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including students, faculty, and industry peers. This affiliate membership
provides a platform to gain visibility and recognition in both academic and industrial circles and promote your
institution/company globally. The funds will enable the program to grow further allowing it to reach more
participants and deliver even greater value. The affiliate members fall into the following 3 categories:
Write to us at iswdp.msdlab@iisc.ac.in to learn more about the mode of engagement, modalities, and Return
on Investment.
India Semiconductor Workforce Development Program
Semiconductor Devices)
• Basics of semicounductors • Sentaurus Device Editor Mini. Qual.: B.Tech. 2nd Year or B.Sc
• Basics of Technology CAD Duration: 1 Week (10 Hrs)
Level-1
• Sentaurus Device
• TCAD Tool Workflow
• Sentaurus Workbench Schedule: Once Every 3 Months
• Basic 2D Structure Creation
• Sentaurus Visual Learning: Live Virtual / Demo
• Diode and MOSFET Simulation
Maximum-Participants: 1000
• Device Analysis
• Look Inside the Device Fees (INR):
• Students: 2000 (+GST)
(See how it works) • Industry (INR): 20,000 (+GST)
• Basics of semiconductor process • Sentaurus Device Editor Mini. Qual.: B.Tech 7th Semester or
technology M.Sc 3rd Semester
• 2D Process Simulations • Sentaurus Device
Duration: 4 Weekends (20 Hrs)
Advance
Level-2)
• 3D Device Simulations
• Sentaurus Workbench Schedule: Once Every 3 Months
• Process Development
• Basics of Semiconductor Device • Sentaurus Visual Learning: Live Virtual, Hands-On &
Characterization Assignments*
• Mixed-mode Simulations • Script Editor
• Frequency Dependence, AC, and Maximum-Participants: 1000
• Sentaurus Process
Thermal analysis Fees (INR):
• RF Device Simulations • Scripting in Sentaurus visual • Students: 5000 (+GST)*
• Parameter Extraction
• Additional Charge 6000*
• Calibration Basics
• Industry (INR): 60,000 (+GST)
The fee mentioned above is exclusive of fellowship-based fee waivers. Those granted fellowship-based
fee waivers will pay significantly lower fees, and in some cases, may receive a 100% fee waiver.
India Semiconductor Workforce Development Program
Modules
Level (Revised Nomenclature) Detailed Content
In this module, students will get to learn the basics of semiconductor physics. Besides, they get to know how to create basic device structures
in TCAD and define doping profiles during the practical sessions. This includes the following
Text Books to TCAD 1. Steps to create/emulate basic semiconductor devices using GUI?
2. Defining standard/idealized doping profiles for these devices.
Level-1 This module deals with porting from building device structure to simulating/characterizing device characteristics/behaviour. From the
(Pre-requisites: First Cut Design theory and practical, the students will learn
Semiconductor 1. How to carry out basic device simulations for estimating output and transfer characteristics of the device designed developed through
Devices) earlier.
2. How to generate various characteristics curves.
At this level, the following two and three terminal device structures will be discussed with hands-on in TCAD
1. Diodes
Basic Devices 2. BJTs
3. MOSFETs.
At this level students will develop in depth understanding of semiconductor devices and associated physics and device design aspects.
Besides, one can expect the following from hands-on sessions:
1. Realistic device designs and doping profiles.
Technology Relevant
2. Understand implications of design on the characteristics.
Design
3. Study and experiment geometrical & scaling effects.
Outcome: Able to Preparing realistic device structure and know the intricacies involved in device design
Level-2 At this level, we will be dealing with next level of sophistication in device structures, including the following:
(Pre-requisites: 1. Device structures to be created: PMOS and CMOS.
Level-1) Advanced Devices
2. Emulate process level variations in the device structure.
3. Creating a complete CMOS structure considering device isolation strategy.
This module advances the hands-on further and brings it closer to Industry practices
1. Script based device structure design.
Design Automation
2. Learning to build/design the full stack of the device using critical design variables.
3. Creating multiple variants of the device structure based on variation in geometrical parameters with the help of scripts and optimize
designs.
On the device simulation front at this level, we will be advancing the understanding of simulation by including following steps:
Deeper Insights 1. Explanation of physical models used in estimating device behaviour.
2. Playing with physical models to understand their impact on electrical characteristics of the device.
Process Design At this level, students will learn about the actual semiconductor process (Fab) technology and will move one more step closer to the
real-world semiconductor devices and industry practices and semiconductor process development. Besides, the following is covered in
hands-on:
1. Process design and process simulations factor in impact of process variations
2. Layout based process flow emulation of practical device structures
3. Analysing impact of process conditions on critical device features like doping profile, junction depths, etch profiles, etc.
On the device characteristics simulation front, we introduce the most important step to make the analysis relevant for industrial /research &
Device Calibration
development purposes. This will be accomplished with the help of following sub-modules:
1. Bringing structure as close as possible to real world (Fab) scenario
2. Learning basics of calibration
a. Outlining steps for calibration of silicon-based devices
b. Learning how to select physical model for calibration
c. Identifying different operating regimes in the output and transfer curves
d. Identifying critical parameters of device physics models affecting device behaviour in these operating regimes.
India Semiconductor Workforce Development Program
Modules
Level (Revised Nomenclature) Detailed Content
Simulations generate huge volumes of data which increases exponentially with size of the design of experiments. Parameter extraction
enables one to extract the most important and relevant parameters from the simulation output to enable quick visualisation and comparison.
Parameter In this module, you will learn
Extraction 1. To write scripts for automated data plotting
2. Introduction to important functions including functions for extracting threshold voltage, on resistance, on current, saturation current, and
breakdown voltage
3. Introduction to building custom scripts for extracting custom parameters as per requirement.
Industry Professionals will learn how to carry out simulations of HEMT devices. The module will comprise of following sub-modules:
1. Building up basic device structure
2. Carrying out calibration for DC and RF performance
HEMTs 3. Identification and explanation of different physical models necessary to simulate DC behavior
4. Analysis of the impact of epitaxial layer arrangement on the channel charge
5. Simulating the Id-Vd and IdVg behavior of the device
6. Enabling trap analysis in GaN HEMT device. Identification of critical parameters to be analyzed.
7. OFF-state breakdown analysis of the devices
8. Simulating the RF performance of the device.
To make the device structures industry relevant, this module will introduce following sub-modules:
1. Significance of 3D simulation
2. Virtualizing the manufacturing process
3. Switching From 2D to 3D
Advanced Process 4. Defining 3D simulation domain
Simulation 5. Process Flow
6. Efficient meshing strategy
Custom 7. Doping mechanism and Structure-modifying steps (etching, deposition, photo, and transform)
(Pre-requisites: 8. Visualization of devices in 3D,2D cutplanes and 1D cutlines
Advanced) 9. Mask-based process simulation with direct import of GDSII layouts, 2D vs 3D.
The commencement of classes is conditional upon the enrolment of 15 participants in each module. Once the
Custom
modules are filled, classes will begin from the subsequent weekend.
Level 2 Tentatively starting from June 28, 2025 (All Saturdays and Sundays 5 - 8 PM)
Cohort 5
Advance Tentatively starting from July 26, 2025 (All Saturdays and Sundays 5 - 8 PM)
The commencement of classes is conditional upon the enrolment of 15 participants in each module. Once the
Custom
modules are filled, classes will begin from the subsequent weekend.
Level 2 Tentatively starting from October 25, 2025 (All Saturdays and Sundays 5 - 8 PM)
Cohort 6
Advance Tentatively starting from November 22, 2025 (All Saturdays and Sundays 5 - 8 PM)
The commencement of classes is conditional upon the enrolment of 15 participants in each module. Once the
Custom
modules are filled, classes will begin from the subsequent weekend.
Register Now
Contacts
+91 80229 32732 / +91 96863 40309
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iswdp.msdlab@iisc.ac.in / info@iisc-iswdp.org
@ www.iisc-iswdp.org