Boise State University has landed a $7.4 million federal grant for semiconductor research.

The money, the largest U.S. National Science Foundation award in university history, will go toward the creation of a campus semiconductor center.

Dubbed AWESOME — short for the Center for Advancing Workforce Experience through Semiconductors, Outreach, and Mentoring Excellence — the new program will have three goals. It will work on research designed to reduce the energy cost of artificial intelligence, position Boise State as a national leader in semiconductor research and education and provide new opportunities for students pursuing a career in semiconductor industries.

“This historic award marks a proud and defining moment for Boise State,” Interim President Jeremiah Shinn said in a news release. “It affirms the creativity and expertise of our faculty, expands opportunity for our students, and strengthens Idaho’s position in an industry that is vital to our nation’s future.”

Dean of Boise State’s College of Engineering Amy Fleischer said, “The AWESOME Center will provide students with unparalleled opportunities to learn, research, and innovate in semiconductors, an industry critical to Idaho and our nation.”