WMG expands semiconductor research with new compound semiconductors team

Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) has established a new compound semiconductors research area with the appointment of Professor Peter Gammon and Dr Arne (Ben) Renz, strengthening the University of Warwick’s work in one of the fastest-growing areas of advanced electronics.

The pair join WMG from the University’s School of Engineering and will expand research into silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors, which are increasingly used in electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, aerospace applications and AI data centres.

WMG is the University of Warwick’s applied research and innovation department, working with industry to accelerate the commercialisation of advanced manufacturing, electrification, digital technologies and sustainable engineering through collaborative research and industrial partnerships.

Professor Gammon and Dr Renz will focus on developing next-generation SiC semiconductor devices capable of operating at higher voltages and temperatures than conventional silicon chips. The work aims to improve the performance, reliability and manufacturability of future power electronics while supporting large-scale industrial production.

Their research is being undertaken through programmes including the UKRI REWIRE Innovation and Knowledge Centre, where they work with industrial partners to improve device performance and accelerate commercial adoption.

Professor Peter Gammon explained: “Power semiconductors are becoming as strategically important to electrification as batteries.

“As silicon carbide technology matures, the challenge is increasingly about manufacturing, reliability and industrial scale-up. WMG provides an ideal environment to translate our research into technologies that deliver real economic impact.”

He adds: “Together with our colleagues in the School of Engineering, we’ll continue to build on Warwick’s internationally recognised semiconductor research, while strengthening our partnerships with industry. By combining research excellence with manufacturing and industrial collaboration, we can help accelerate the commercial adoption of these technologies.”

Professor Paul Jennings, WMG’s Director of Research, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Peter and his team into WMG. Their expertise and partnerships in this crucial area complement our existing research and align perfectly with our aim to enable industry to become more sustainable, resilient and competitive.”

Earlier this year, TechSparx reported that the University of Warwick had signed a strategic research agreement with Tata Power to accelerate innovation in new energy systems, reinforcing WMG’s role in industrial electrification and advanced engineering. The new semiconductor research group builds on that wider strategy to develop technologies supporting future energy and manufacturing systems.

Image of Dr Renz from Warwick University