Texas A&M University will receive a $13 million state grant to expand its Cyclotron Institute in College Station, Gov. Greg Abbott announced May 7. The grant is part of a statewide effort to strengthen semiconductor research and advanced technology development.
What readers should know
Abbott announced the funding through the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund in a news release, which supports projects tied to chip manufacturing, national defense and space technology.
The investment will expand the institute's Radiation Effects Facility, adding new beam lines and advanced testing equipment used to evaluate how electronics perform in extreme environments, such as space missions, satellites and defense systems.
About the project
Abbott's release continues, the Cyclotrone Institute has provided high-energy particle testing for more than three decades and is considered a key national resource for developing radiation-resistant microchips and electronic systems.
The expansion builds on a $28.1 million university project, approved in February, that will add roughly 6,000 square feet of research and testing space on Texas A&M's main campus. Construction is expected to begin later this year, as part of ongoing efforts to grow semiconductor research capacity in Texas.
What leaders are saying
“Texas is where the future of innovation accelerates,” Abbott said in his news release. “Through this TSIF grant, Texas A&M University will speed the development of innovative technologies used in our semiconductor, defense, and space exploration industries. In collaboration with our higher education partners, we will further advance Texas’ leadership in semiconductor research, testing, and design while we secure our nation’s future.”
State Rep. Paul Dyson said the project strengthens the Brazos Valley's role as a hub for advanced research while supporting workforce development and future high-tech job growth.
“This $13 million TSIF grant is more than an investment in research—it’s a vote of confidence in the powerful collaboration between our community and a world-class institution," Dyson said. "Expanding the Cyclotron Institute not only bolsters our national security, but it also provides a tremendous opportunity for the creation of high-tech jobs that will ultimately drive sustained economic vitality across Brazos County and throughout Texas.”
One more thing
The Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund was created through the Texas CHIPS Act in 2023 to help expand semiconductor research, design and manufacturing across the state.
