Jan, 30: The Centre for Research Excellence in Semiconductor Technologies at BITS Pilani, Hyderabad Campus successfully concluded its two-week residential Winter School Program with a vibrant Valedictory Session. The initiative offered immersive learning, hands-on training, and industry exposure in emerging semiconductor technologies.
The program brought together students from leading institutions across India, including VIT-AP University, BITS Pilani campuses, Sri Sairam College of Engineering, Dibrugarh University, and Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya. It reflected CREST’s commitment to building a strong talent pipeline for India’s semiconductor ecosystem.
Participants explored cleanroom protocols, micro and nanofabrication, device modelling, and materials characterization, with access to advanced facilities like the Nanofabrication Clean Room, MEMS and Nanoelectronics Labs, and Printed Electronics Lab. The program was led by Prof. Sanket Goel (Head CREST) and Dr. Praloy Mondal, supported by the CREST team.
A highlight was the distinguished lecture series featuring experts such as Dr. Naresh Emani (IIT Hyderabad), Dr. Jagadeesh S. Moodera (MIT), Prof. Pradeep Dixit (IIT Bombay), and others, offering global perspectives on frontier research. Students also visited Micron Technology’s Hyderabad facility for real-world insights into semiconductor manufacturing.
Beyond academics, the Winter School also focused on holistic development and peer bonding. Fun sessions, interactive quizzes, informal discussions, and team-building activities were integrated into the program, creating a lively and collaborative learning environment.
Participants overwhelmingly appreciated the program for its depth of learning, hands-on exposure, and mentorship opportunities. They highlighted how the experience helped them connect theory with real-world applications, broadened their access to advanced facilities, and strengthened their interest in research and technology.
Faculty members echoed this sentiment, commending the students’ curiosity, engagement, and discipline. They emphasized that early exposure to cutting-edge research environments plays a transformative role in shaping confident, capable innovators.
The Valedictory Session was graced by distinguished guests Dr. Kaveri Jain, Micron Technology and Dr. Usha Verma, Outstanding Scientist, DRDO who delivered inspiring addresses to the participants. Dr. Kaveri Jain remarked,
“Platforms like this Winter School are instrumental in shaping young minds at an early stage. The exposure to advanced laboratories, real-world research, and mentorship gives students clarity and confidence about their future.” Dr. Usha Verma added, “This initiative goes beyond teaching concepts it nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and resilience. These are the qualities that future scientists and technologists must possess.”
In his closing address, Prof. Sanket Goel, Dean BITS Pilani, emphasized the importance of early exposure to research culture and the critical role of academia-industry collaboration in building India’s semiconductor ecosystem. He encouraged students to continue exploring, innovating, and contributing meaningfully to the nation’s technological ambitions.
The program concluded with the distribution of participation certificates and recognitions, celebrating the students’ dedication, creativity, and enthusiasm throughout the Winter School. With this successful Winter School initiative, CREST and BITS Pilani reaffirm their leadership in nurturing next-generation talent and strengthening India’s position in the global semiconductor value chain.