An Atomic Force Microscope to Enhance and Expand Undergraduate Research

这个项目支持使用原子力显微镜来加强和扩展已经很活跃的本科生参与物理研究的计划。显微镜并不是一件孤立的技术珍品；相反，它是正在进行的物理实验室研究计划的重要组成部分，本科生可以在智力和操作上接触到它。该研究项目涉及当前对凝聚态物理感兴趣的主题，同时使学生接触到对基础研究至关重要的广泛的现代实验技术，以及具有直接经济重要性的领域，如电气工程、纳米制造和材料科学。这些技术包括低温技术、高真空技术、薄膜沉积技术、光刻技术、电子设计和制造技术、机械车间实践和电气测量技术。新仪器为本科生带来了新的研究机会，并提高了他们工作的质量和意义。对于其他有兴趣在本科生帮助下从事可发表研究的物理学家来说，该项目也可能是一个有用和有吸引力的模式。

This project supports the use of an atomic force microscope to strengthen and extend an already vigorous program of undergraduate participation in physics research. The microscope does not function as an isolated technological curiosity; instead, it is an essential component of the ongoing physics laboratory research program, and is intellectually and operationally accessible to undergraduates. The research program addresses topics of current interest in condensed matter physics while exposing students to a broad spectrum of modern experimental techniques critical to basic research as well as to fields of direct economic importance such as electrical engineering, nanofabrication, and materials science. These techniques include cryogenics, high vacuum, thin-film deposition, photolithography, electronic design and construction, machine shop practice, and electrical measurements. The new apparatus introduces fresh research opportunities for undergraduates and enhances the quality and significance of their work. The program may also be a useful and appealing model for other physicists interested in pursuing publishable research with undergraduate assistance.