In the Spanier Group we investigate the electronic and functional properties of thin-film and nanoscale materials and devices. We are actively involved in designing, preparing and characterizing new materials, their surfaces, and their interfaces with other materials. In our work we seek to address challenges relating to scaling and performance of transistors. We are working to advance photovoltaic science and technology via new polar oxide materials, including their preparation, and laser spectroscopic and scanned proximal probe characterizations. These investigations are aided by our studies of how functional and multi-functional properties can be tailored and improved in nanostructured materials.
semiconducting ferroelectrics for robust and efficient oxide photovoltaics
new approaches for nanoscale transistor and memories
tunable hot electron transfer physics and devices
functional properties of ferroic and multi-ferroic nanostructures, e.g. for non-volatile memories and magnetic-field sensing
growth and properties of semiconductor and oxide nanowires
atomic layer deposition of oxide perovskite films and heterostructures
