CAREER: Atomic Mechanisms at Interfaces and Defects in Semiconducting Materials

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9733895 Browning The objective of this CAREER project is to develop a comprehensive research and education program linked to the next generation of semiconducting materials and devices. The project strives for an atomic level understanding of structure-property relationships in semiconducting materials, and a parallel materials science education program. The research will utilize recently developed correlated atomic resolution Z-contrast imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) techniques in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) to probe internal interfaces and defects in semiconductors with the goal of determining atomic structure, composition and electronic structure at individual atomic sites. Electronic and optical properties of individual interfaces or defects will be modeled and the overall material properties constructed from fundamental atomic properties. Unlike traditional high-resolution imaging techniques, where images and simulations must be matched, this approach allows real materials defects and interfaces to be investigated. Research will include GaN and SiC, ITO/n-GaAs, ZnSe/Fe magnetic multilayers, and the effect of nitrogen on the oxidation of Si and SiGe for VLSI. The project involves established collaborations with university materials growth groups and with industry, incorporating feedback between growth and characterization related to advanced device concepts and developments. Atomic scale research studies of semiconductors are ideal for the integration of research and education. Links between the operation of an everyday object such as a CD-player or computer, and the atomic structure of its components, will be used to emphasize basic features of materials science, and the excitement of discovery. Similar project based learning ideas will also be incorporated into the undergraduate curriculum. The PI will be teaching a new course in experimental materials physics, where the focus will be on fundamental character ization and applications of materials. Running parallel to this will be a graduate course, where experiments will be carried out at higher levels of sophistication, and related to real world applications. %%% The project addresses leading edge research and education issues in a topical area of materials science having high technological relevance. The research will contribute basic materials science knowledge at a fundamental level to electronic materials and advanced device concepts. An important feature of the program is the emphasis on education, and on the integration of research and education through the training of students in a fundamentally and technologically significant research area. ***