Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), Shimla, and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi are set to ink a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in the areas of electron microscopy, nanomaterials, and semiconductor technology. The announcement was made by HPU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mahavir Singh on Saturday.
The MoU process is expected to be completed shortly. Prof. Singh was addressing the National Conference on Advances in Electron Microscopy and Its Applications (AEMA-2025), which commenced at IIT Mandi, marking a significant step towards enhancing academic and research partnerships between the state’s premier institutions.
The conference has brought together eminent scientists, academicians, researchers, and industry experts from across the country to deliberate on the latest developments in electron microscopy and its applications in nanoelectronics, semiconductor engineering, materials science, and advanced device fabrication.
During the inaugural session, detailed presentations highlighted the advanced research infrastructure at IIT Mandi’s Centre for Design and Fabrication of Electronic Devices (C4DFED). The facility houses Class 100, 1000, and 10000 cleanroom laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art tools such as FESEM, Electron Beam Lithography, Atomic Force Microscopy, Reactive Ion Etching systems, UV and maskless lithography, ellipsometer, and multi-chamber sputtering systems.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Mahavir Singh underscored the transformative role of electron microscopy in modern science, noting its significant contributions to semiconductors, nanotechnology, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing. He commended IIT Mandi for developing C4DFED as a regional and national-level research facility aligned with India’s Semiconductor Mission and the Make in India initiative.
Prof. Satendra, Chair of the Laboratory at IIT Mandi and an alumnus of HPU, briefed the Vice-Chancellor on the technical capabilities of the laboratory, which were examined in detail during the visit. Prof. Singh also met the Director of IIT Mandi and expressed pride in the contributions of an HPU alumnus to cutting-edge research at a premier institute.
The proposed MoU is expected to facilitate joint research initiatives, faculty and student exchange programmes, shared access to advanced facilities, and collaborative projects in electron microscopy, nanomaterials, and semiconductor technologies.
AEMA-2025 features keynote lectures, technical sessions, poster presentations, and live demonstrations of advanced microscopy tools, providing a vibrant platform for academic exchange and innovation. Several faculty members, scientists, and researchers, including Prof. Nain Jeet Singh and Prof. Satendra, were present on the occasion.
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