Prof. Michael Krueger has been awarded the prestigious ERC Proof of Concept (ERCPoC) grant by the European Research Council (ERC). Prof. Krueger received the grant for developing a novel semiconductor diagnostic platform based on electron microscopy.
The project, called SEMI-PULSER, combines pulsed scanning electron microscopy with active semiconductor device operation, enabling the direct observation of nanoscale electronic dynamics in functioning circuits in real time. This unique approach could provide unprecedented insight into the processes that determine chip performance and reliability, supporting faster failure analysis, more efficient manufacturing, and the development of next-generation semiconductor technologies. The platform has the potential to become a valuable tool for both academic research and the semiconductor industry.
This prestigious grant supports the translation of frontier research into practical applications and commercial opportunities, including the creation of startup companies. The ERCPoC grants are awarded exclusively to researchers who have previously received ERC funding.
In this ERC funding round, the European Commission will award Proof of Concept grants to selected projects across Europe, helping researchers bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world impact. Each grant provides funding to explore the commercial and societal potential of results generated through previous ERC-supported research.
