AUSTIN, TX — Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday announced a $13 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund to Texas A&M University to support an expansion of its Cyclotron Institute in College Station.
State officials said the funding will enhance the institute’s Radiation Effects Facility, which has provided high-energy heavy-ion particle testing for more than 30 years. The expansion will include new beam lines and a state-of-the-art spectrometer to improve radiation hardness testing for electronics used in extreme environments.
“Texas is where the future of innovation accelerates,” said Governor Abbott. “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.”
The Cyclotron Institute plays a key role in testing and validating materials and electronics used in satellites, spacecraft, missile defense systems and nuclear energy applications.
Glenn Hegar, chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, said the funding will strengthen a resource essential to national security and technological development.
“I’m grateful to Governor Abbott for having the vision to invest in Texas A&M University’s Cyclotron Institute’s Radiation Effects Facility,” said Texas A&M University System Chancellor Glenn Hegar. “This grant will strengthen a resource that’s essential to testing and validating the electronics and materials our nation depends on, from satellites and spacecraft to missile defense systems and nuclear power. That means faster innovation, greater reliability, and stronger national security — all made possible because Texas continues to lead in semiconductor and advanced technology research."
State Sen. Charles Schwertner and state Rep. Paul Dyson also highlighted the project’s role in bolstering Texas’ position as a leader in semiconductor research and advanced technology, as well as its potential to create high-tech jobs in the Brazos Valley.
“Texas A&M’s Cyclotron Institute, rooted in the heart of Senate District 5, serves as a world leader in nuclear research and semiconductor testing,” said Senator Charles Schwertner. “This investment will help ensure Texas remains at the forefront of technological innovation, strengthening our national defense and powering the next frontier of space exploration.”
The funding comes through the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund, established under the Texas CHIPS Act. The program is designed to support semiconductor research, design and manufacturing, while encouraging industry growth and collaboration with higher education institutions.
“The partnership between the State of Texas, Brazos County, the cities of Bryan and College Station, and Texas A&M University cements the Brazos Valley as a global hub for innovation,” said Representative Paul Dyson. “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. 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.”
Officials said the expansion will help Texas maintain its leadership in semiconductor innovation and strengthen the state’s role in national defense and space exploration.
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