Oregon State University (OSU) has announced a significant boost to its efforts in advancing microfluidic technology for semiconductors and mass timber design, with each initiative receiving a $500,000 award from the White House. This funding comes as part of a broader initiative by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, which designated 31 Tech Hubs across the nation in October 2023.
The Corvallis Microfluidics Tech Hub, known as CorMic, is at the forefront of these efforts. This collaborative initiative involves over 60 organizations dedicated to developing, scaling, and manufacturing microfluidics technologies. Microfluidics, which involves the precise control of small volumes of liquid, plays a crucial role in semiconductor thermal management, biotechnology, and advanced materials manufacturing.
CorMic is not only focused on technological innovation but also on workforce development. Through partnerships with universities, tech companies, and community organizations, the hub aims to commercialize microfluidics-connected technologies while educating a skilled workforce to support these advancements.
In addition to CorMic, the Pacific Northwest Mass Timber Tech Hub is also making strides in sustainable construction practices. This initiative seeks to position the region as a global leader in mass timber design and manufacturing, aiming to reduce the construction industry’s carbon footprint and enhance housing affordability. By leveraging the Pacific Northwest’s rich history in wood products research and the expertise of its architectural, engineering, and construction firms, the Tech Hub plans to invest in advanced materials science to promote mass timber as a viable and environmentally friendly construction alternative.
These tech hubs are part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, which emphasizes the importance of scaling up critical technologies in areas such as semiconductors, quantum computing, autonomous systems, biotechnology, clean energy, critical minerals, innovative materials, and advanced manufacturing.
