Clarkson University Engineering Student Isabella Ponzi Awarded Prestigious Micron Scholarship for Summer Research
Clarkson University is proud to announce that Isabella Ponzi, a Mechanical Engineering student in The Clarkson School and Honors Program, has been awarded a highly competitive Micron Scholarship.
This prestigious award will provide her with a stipend to support 10 weeks of hands-on summer research in semiconductor technology, further advancing her academic and professional aspirations. Ponzi’s selection underscores the strength of Clarkson’s School of Engineering in fostering innovation and preparing students for the rapidly evolving technology sector.
Ponzi’s passion for semiconductor research began early in her academic career when she explored the chemical-mechanical planarization (CMP) process—a critical step in chip manufacturing—under the guidance of Devon Shipp, the director of the Center for Advanced Materials Processing (CAMP) at Clarkson University.
Through her research in polymer chemistry, Ponzi investigated the optimization of CMP materials to enhance wafer precision and efficiency. This experience solidified her interest in the field, leading her to pursue additional opportunities to deepen her expertise in semiconductor processes.
“My interest in the semiconductor industry started when I participated in research on polymer chemistry during my first semester,” Ponzi explained. “While working on the chemistry aspect of this field, I became very interested in the manufacturing side, and I am excited to see where it can bring me.”
Looking ahead, Ponzi is eager to make a lasting impact in the semiconductor industry.
“My goal is to develop expertise in semiconductor processes and emerging technologies while working in a dynamic environment that I can continue to grow in,” she said.
The Micron Scholarship will provide Ponzi with invaluable hands-on experience, helping her contribute to cutting-edge advancements in chip manufacturing and innovation. Clarkson University celebrates Ponzi’s achievement and looks forward to seeing how her work will shape the future of the semiconductor industry.
