US-based semiconductor company Applied Materials is expanding its presence in India by establishing a Center of Excellence in AI and Data Science in Tamil Nadu. This initiative follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Applied Materials India and the Tamil Nadu Government. The new center, to be located in Chennai, will focus on advancing semiconductor manufacturing and equipment through AI-enabled technology development.
Focus on Local Collaboration
The Center of Excellence will collaborate with local universities and industry partners to strengthen Tamil Nadu’s semiconductor ecosystem. The primary aim is to develop a skilled workforce that is well-prepared to meet the growing demands of the chip industry. Over the next few years, Applied Materials plans to create over 500 technical jobs in the state, contributing significantly to the local economy.
MOU Signing Ceremony
The MOU was signed in San Francisco, with the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Mr. M.K. Stalin, and Dr. Prabu Raja, President of the Semiconductor Products Group at Applied Materials, Inc., in attendance. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that investments in advanced electronics and semiconductors would help Tamil Nadu achieve its goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2030. He emphasized the state’s commitment to becoming South Asia’s leading hub for knowledge and innovation.
Educational Collaborations
Applied Materials’ new center will also enhance existing collaborations with academic institutions in Tamil Nadu. These partnerships aim to advance research in AI, machine learning, and data science specifically tailored to the semiconductor equipment sector. This initiative will not only support the growth of the semiconductor industry but also contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies within the state.
Commitment to Growth
Dr. Prabu Raja, President of the Semiconductor Products Group at Applied Materials, Inc., highlighted Tamil Nadu’s strong industrial base and its wealth of scientific talent. He expressed the company’s eagerness to expand its presence in Chennai and work closely with the government to integrate AI capabilities and advanced analytics into the local semiconductor manufacturing and equipment ecosystem.
