Advanced Mid-infrared Spectroscopy of Narrow-Gap Semiconductor Structures Under Application of Uniax
University of Surrey - Dept. of Physics, University of Surrey and School of Physics & Astronomy, University of Southampton
Project Supervisors: Dr J. Hosea (Surrey) and Prof. P. Lagoudakis (Southampton)
The Universities of Surrey and Southampton have won PhD studentship funding from SEPnet. This will be enhanced by an additional grant from industrial collaborator QinetiQ. Applications are now invited (ideally commencing Oct. 2009 but available until Jan. 2010.)
This experimental project will investigate fundamental aspects of the narrow-gap, quantum well semiconductor material systems used to make a variety of novel devices including: (1) lasers operating in the 3-4 mm range, which are important for applications such as biomedical imaging, monitoring trace atmospheric gases and secure free space communication; (2) ultra-fast low power-dissipation transistors, which are being intensively researched to keep Moore's Law on track; (3) quantum components for long-term radical changes to computation for the solution of key types of problem.
In order to make progress in designing more efficient lasers or faster transistors, we need to fully understand the detailed electronic band-structure of the narrow-gap semiconductor structures concerned. This key objective will be achieved by a unique combination of advanced optical spectroscopic characterisation techniques and the application of uniaxial strain. The measurements will be compared with predictions by theoreticians, at Surrey, as a function of strain, which will then yield the required band-structure parameters.
The student will be registered at Surrey and supervised by Dr. Hosea using Surrey's extensive spectroscopic facilities, with co-supervision by Prof. Lagoudakis at Southampton regarding their novel strain-application techniques. The samples will be grown and fabricated at QinetiQ's Malvern Technology Centre, with industrial supervision by Prof. T. Ashley. The student will make regular trips to both Southampton and Malvern. Surrey's device studies facilities will also be available to measure the performance and loss mechanisms of any resulting new devices.
Funding Notes
The SEPnet (www.sepnet.ac.uk) studentship funding is equivalent to that of the EPSRC (Home/EU fees, plus stipend of £12,940 p.a. and research training support grant of £1200 p.a.) The additional funds from QinetiQ (www.qinetiq.com) are approx. £22k spread over three years, a substantial fraction of which will be used to enhance the student's stipend.
Conditions
Applicants should have a minimum of an upper second class (2.1) degree in Physics (or equivalent) and be able to demonstrate good experimental abilities. Evidence of experience in optical spectroscopy would also be an advantage. Home/UK applicants (with a relevant connection to the UK, usually established by residence) are eligible to apply. Applicants with a relevant connection to other EU countries may be eligible for tuition fees and maintenance grant, subject to status and the usual formalities.
Informal Enquiries can be made to:
Dr. Jeff Hosea
Department of Physics,
T: +44 (0)1483 689412
E: j.hosea@surrey.ac.uk
Application by CV to:
Ms Cristobel Soares-Smith
Department of Physics
Faculty of Engineering & Physical Sciences
University of Surrey
Guildford,
GU2 7XH, UK
T: +44 (0)1483 686800
F: +44 (0)1483 686781
E: c.soares-smith@surrey.ac.uk
Application deadline: January 2010
