MINATEC in figures

Researchers at Spintec won an ERC Proof of Concept grant for a SOT-MRAM memory fabrication process developed under an earlier ERC grant. The challenge here is the unusual profile of the memory’s free magnetic layer. Rather than being round, it has a number of angles. This unique geometry eliminates the need to use micromagnets, which would normally be required for the system to operate in a reproducible manner. The downside is that standard UV lithography machines are not suitable for… More information

In research published in Advanced Materials, CEA-Leti and Bordeaux-based CELIA* developed a process to generate random micrometric patterns. A pulsed laser is used to melt thin layers of an amorphous germanium chalcogenide. This causes tiny wrinkles that are micrometers wide and tens of nanometers deep to form, creating the pattern. They are impossible to reproduce identically and, therefore, unique—perfect for authenticating items of value that are often counterfeited, from computer chips to fine timepieces and jewelery. And, at just 50… More information

Three FMNT (Foundation for Micro and Nano Technology) partner labs had four equipment purchase requests, endorsed by FMNT, approved for funding by Grenoble INP. The equipment will be installed in the labs in 2021 and will be made available to other users through the OPE)N(RA characterization platform. IMEP-LaHC will get a latest-generation semiconductor parameter analyzer and a fiber splicer for new “special” optical fibers. G2ELab will receive electrothermal characterization equipment for wide-gap semiconductor power component and multilayer component research.   And… More information

On October 1, 2020 Grenoble INP won the “Most Committed School Award” for its Genre INP’lication project at the CDEFI* 10th annual Ingénieuses women in engineering competition. The award-winning project to improve gender representation is led by Céline Ternon, who heads gender equity programs at Grenoble INP. Genre INP’lication encompassed awareness-raising activities at several Grenoble INP schools. The goal is to get students thinking about gender stereotypes. Although progress is being made at engineering schools, deep-rooted inequalities persist in the… More information