Abstract: A method for manufacturing a semiconductor structure includes forming a first dielectric layer on a gate structure and a source drain structure. A recess is formed at least partially in the first dielectric layer. A protection layer is formed at least on a sidewall of the recess. The recess is deepened to expose the source drain structure. A bottom conductor is formed in the recess and is electrically connected to the source drain structure. The protection layer is removed to form a gap between the bottom conductor and the sidewall of the recess.

Abstract: A semiconductor device with variable channel strain is provided. The semiconductor device comprises a nanowire structure formed as a channel between a source region and a drain region. The nanowire structure has a first channel section subjected to a first strain level and joined with a second channel section subjected to a second strain level different from the first strain level. The first channel section is coupled adjacent to the drain region and the second channel section is coupled adjacent to the source region. The semiconductor device further comprises a gate region that has a first strain section and a second strain section. The first strain section is configured to cause the first channel section to be subjected to the first strain level and the second strain section is configured to cause the second channel section to be subjected to the second strain level.