We’re proud to support the next generation of Australian semiconductor talent through the Semiconductor Global Reach Student Fund. The fund provides opportunities for Australian students to increase their skills and knowledge in relation to semiconductor technologies by engaging with training experiences in the international semiconductor community.
The below recipients are brilliant examples of what this initiative is all about.
Thi-Hao Le, a PhD researcher from Griffith University
We’re pleased to spotlight Thi-Hao Le, a PhD researcher from Griffith University and recipient of the S3B Semiconductor Global Reach Student Fund, who recently attended SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 in Kuala Lumpur.
With support from the fund, Hao was able to connect with the global semiconductor community, participate in technical forums and explore the latest developments shaping the future of the industry.
Hao’s research focuses on 2D materials and quantum technologies, and the experience provided a valuable opportunity to connect academic research with real-world industry challenges and emerging technology needs. The conference also offered opportunities to build connections with researchers, engineers and industry leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region, while gaining a deeper understanding of emerging semiconductor technologies.
Reflecting on the experience, Hao highlighted the importance of collaboration, adaptability and interdisciplinary engagement in a rapidly evolving semiconductor sector. The experience also reinforced Hao’s commitment to contributing to Australia’s growing semiconductor ecosystem.
Yvonne Morris, an undergraduate student at the University of Technology Sydney
We are delighted to have supported Yvonne in attending the SEMICON SEA Tech Zoomers Bootcamp in Malaysia.
During the four-day program, Yvonne collaborated with students from across South-East Asia to develop an AI-powered computer vision solution aimed at improving safety and compliance within semiconductor manufacturing environments. The experience also included industry mentorship, technical presentations, panel discussions, and a visit to the on semi manufacturing facility, providing valuable exposure to the realities of semiconductor fabrication and operations.
Reflecting on the opportunity, Yvonne shared that the bootcamp strengthened her understanding of the semiconductor value chain, the practical application of AI in semiconductor environments, and the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration in solving complex industry challenges. It also reinforced the need to consider technical, operational, compliance, and commercial factors when developing engineering solutions.
Armansyah Putra Marpaung, University of New South Wales
We were delighted to support Armansyah in attending the Asia Photonics Expo (APE) 2026 in Singapore, where he joined researchers, innovators, and industry leaders from across Asia to explore the latest developments in photonics, semiconductors, and emerging technologies.
Through technical sessions, exhibitions, and industry engagement, Armansyah gained valuable exposure to advancements in silicon photonics, semiconductor manufacturing, integrated photonics, optical communications, and AI-based communication systems. He also attended the Photonics SG 2026 and Asia Photonics Conference 2026 programs, gaining insights into how semiconductor technologies are evolving to support next-generation AI infrastructure and high-performance computing applications.
One of Armansyah’s key takeaways was a deeper understanding of the growing importance of silicon photonics in connecting GPU clusters and data centres, and how semiconductor fabrication, advanced packaging, and optical integration must work together to achieve greater performance and energy efficiency. The expo also provided opportunities to learn about integrated photonics research, semiconductor manufacturing processes, and the commercialisation of emerging technologies.
“APE 2026 had a huge contribution to both my technical expertise and my understanding of how new findings in semiconductor research get transformed into commercially viable solutions.”
Beyond the technical knowledge gained, Armansyah connected with researchers, industry experts, and organisations from across the semiconductor and photonics sectors, helping to broaden his understanding of future research and career opportunities in the field.
Daniel Shi (Australian National University), Henry Huu Nguyen (UNSW Sydney), and Serena Li (University of Sydney)
Recipients of the Semiconductor Global Reach Student Fund, who recently attended the 2nd Taipei-Sydney Semiconductor Bootcamp in Taiwan!
We were delighted to support these talented students as they immersed themselves in Taiwan’s world-leading semiconductor ecosystem through a unique combination of technical lectures, laboratory demonstrations, hands-on practical training, and industry visits.
Throughout the bootcamp, students gained firsthand exposure to semiconductor design, fabrication, packaging, silicon photonics, advanced packaging technologies, lithography, and manufacturing processes. They toured leading university research facilities, visited industry sites, participated in packaging and fabrication laboratory exercises, and learned directly from researchers and industry experts working at the forefront of semiconductor innovation.
Reflecting on their experiences:
Daniel Shi (Australian National University)
“I return to Australia with a doubled intent to translate these practical insights into my local academic community and passionately promote this program to fellow students eager to contribute to our growing domestic semiconductor ecosystem.”
Henry Huu Nguyen (UNSW Sydney)
“The packaging exercises at Lunghwa University was probably my favourite part. Seeing the shift from simple PDIP to mainstream LGA, right through to advanced CoWoS technology, really showed how fast packaging has evolved.“
Serena Li (University of Sydney)
“Attending the bootcamp was a valuable way for me to bridge this knowledge gap by providing direct exposure to semiconductor fabrication, packaging, materials and process technologies.”
A special thank you to Professor Jeng and the Taiwan-based organisers for hosting the students and delivering such an enriching program. Through opportunities like the Taipei-Sydney Semiconductor Bootcamp, Australian students gain exposure to semiconductor technologies, facilities, and expertise that are rarely accessible through the classroom alone. S3B greatly values this program and its role in developing the next generation of semiconductor talent while strengthening connections between the Australian and Taiwanese semiconductor ecosystems.
S3B are proud to support emerging talent as they develop their technical capabilities, broaden their industry knowledge, build international networks, and contribute to the future growth of Australia’s semiconductor industry.
Find out the 2026 application dates here: https://s3b.au/2026/04/07/semiconductor-global-reach-student-fund-2026/
