KEYNOTE - The Opportunity to Accelerate the Semiconductor Industry using AI in Materials Discovery
The pursuit of new materials for next-generation semiconductor devices represents a formidable challenge, often likened to finding a "needle in a haystack." This challenge arises from the need to identify materials with tailored electrical, optical, and structural properties amidst an expansive landscape of potential candidates. The intricate interplay of material composition, crystal structure, and electronic properties further complicates the search for ideal semiconductor materials. In response, materials scientists have turned to advanced artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, including generative AI and Bayesian optimization, to expedite the discovery process by leveraging high-throughput screening and computational modeling. During her presentation, Laura Matz, Chief Science and Technology Officer of Merck, KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany and CEO of Athinia, will explore the needle in the haystack challenge in semiconductor materials discovery and examine the pivotal role of AI in navigating this vast landscape to identify promising materials that meet the stringent requirements of next-generation semiconductor devices. Through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates AI-driven materials design with experimental validation, she will present the techniques and approaches that accelerate the discovery of new molecules with the anticipated benefit to accelerate semiconductor technology.
BIOGRAPHY
Dr. Laura Matz is the Chief Science and Technology Officer for Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, driving innovation and digitalization across the 3 business sectors, Life Sciences, Healthcare, and Electronics. Serving as an Executive Vice President within Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, she is responsible for the corporate innovation teams, including the digital office and new digital business models. In addition, Laura is CEO of the newly launched data sharing platform company, Athinia®, which focuses on enabling secure data sharing within the semiconductor ecosystem. She possesses 20 years of experience in semiconductor manufacturing and a decade of experience in running semiconductor materials businesses.
Prior to becoming the Chief Science and Technology Officer, she was a senior vice president within EMD Electronics (previously Versum Materials and Air Products Electronics division). She has always been a key contributor to the growth in semiconductor materials, driving a strong R&D presence to enable business growth.
Laura is a strong advocate for young talent in science and engineering. As a leader, she builds teams to find innovative solutions to the problems facing humanity and implement them with the discipline and rigor to create the greatest impact. In 2023, she joined SEMI Impact for Skills as a board member, a governance program to support upskilling and reskilling, to attract new talent, and to unlock EU and national/ regional funding. In addition, she is a board member of AIChE (American Institute of Chemical Engineers), a leading organization for chemical engineering professionals.
Laura has a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from Washington State University and an undergraduate degree from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-m-matz/