News Archives

UNM’s microsystems education efforts receive mention

August 4, 2020 - by Kim Delker

UNM’s The University of New Mexico’s efforts with microsystems education were mentioned recently in an article published in Pasadena Now.

Pasadena City College in California is leading a National Science Foundation-backed $7 million effort to expand nanotechnology education. The grant will create the Micro Nano Technology Education Center, a consortium bringing together community college and baccalaureate-granting educational institutions, research laboratories, and private corporations working in micro- and nanotechnology fields.

In the article, The University of New Mexico Support Center for Microsystems Education was referenced as a model program. UNM is also a sub-awardee on the grant, with more than $500,000 of the $7 million coming to UNM.

Matthias Pleil, a research professor and lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at UNM, has been leading UNM’s efforts since 2004. The article lauded Pleil’s efforts in bringing faculty and students together for cleanroom-based workshops.

In 2017, UNM received a $1.6 million award from the National Science Foundation to continue their microsystems education efforts. The center recently received a supplemental $300,000 for an undergraduate research experience focused on technician students over the next two years. 

The initiative was initially called the Southwest Center for Microsystems Education, but changed its name to the Support Center for Microsystems Education.