BritChips podcast: Deep Fabrication - Predicting Defects

In this episode, Yasir Noori shares his entrepreneurial journey from quantum computing research to founding Deep Fabrication, a startup developing AI tools to predict defects in semiconductor manufacturing. Discover how AI can transform chip fabrication processes, reduce costs, and accelerate innovation in the industry.Key Topics* The evolution from quantum computing to semiconductor fabrication, and why semiconductors remain a passion.* How Southampton’s advanced clean room facilities influenced Dr. Noori’s focus on deep tech.* The origin story of Deep Fabrication and the importance of AI in defect prediction during manufacturing.* Details of the company’s flagship tool, Deep Litho, designed to optimize lithography processes.* The strategic approach to building a team, including insights from a “speed dating” exercise with AI experts.* The process of market testing with pilot projects within UK and European foundries.* The funding journey, including grants from Innovate UK, angel investors, and future plans for growth.* The balance between academic research, entrepreneurship, and personal life.* Lessons learned, including negotiation strategies and valuable business books like “The Lean Startup” and “The Mom Test.”* Future ambitions: expanding the AI tools across the entire semiconductor manufacturing chain.Timestamps (approx)00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Yasin Noori and Deep Fabrication02:00 - From quantum computing to semiconductors: a strategic career shift04:00 - Southampton’s world-class fabrication facilities and their influence05:30 - Inspiration behind Deep Fabrication’s defect prediction AI solution07:00 - The concept development of Deep Litho and its potential impact09:00 - Building a cross-disciplinary team through networking events11:00 - Organic growth of AI models and expanding into manufacturing processes13:00 - Critical steps of semiconductor fabrication and lithography explained15:30 - How AI can optimize and accelerate lithography process18:00 - Pilot testing with UK companies and plans for scaling globally20:00 - Business model: licensing software and expanding modules22:00 - Funding journey: grants from Innovate UK and plans for investment26:00 - Navigating the challenges of startup incubation and university spinouts33:00 - Managing time between research, entrepreneurship, and personal life35:30 - Advice for young entrepreneurs and lessons learned along the way42:00 - The importance of negotiation and customer validation strategies43:00 - Future plans: raising funds, expanding team, and scaling impactResources & Links* The Lean Startup by Eric Ries* The Mom Test by Rob Fitzpatrick* Innovate UK Funding* Southampton University Zeppler Institute* Future Worlds SouthamptonThe BritChips Podcast is proudly sponsored by Silicon Catalyst UK, Official Partner of the government-funded ChipStartUK semiconductor incubator. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit anttheantidote.substack.com