Two-dimensional semiconductors: A window into the quantum behaviour of electrons

Speaker: Prof. Amalia Patane (University of Nottingham)

https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/physics/people/amalia.patane

Title: Two-dimensional semiconductors: A window into the quantum behaviour of electrons

Abstract: Semiconductors are the pillars of modern technologies and have provided the platform to uncover phenomena of fundamental and technological importance. However, the fundamental principles and practical routes that underpin the design and realization of high-performance functional systems remain challenging tasks. Here, I will review my recent research on atomically thin layers of van der Waals crystals, also referred to as two-dimensional (2d) materials. I will focus on 2d semiconductors (2SEM) based on metal chalcogenides (MCs) with different polymorphs, stoichiometries, topological phases and interfaces. I will show how their combination with other 2d vdW materials, such as graphene, magnetic layers, bBP, and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) offers enormous opportunities for science and technologies. In particular, I will present a bespoke cluster (EPI2SEM) for EPItaxial growth and in situ analysis of 2SEM in ultra-high vacuum. This can provide the high-purity systems and advanced research tools required to advance the field beyond present state-of-the art. 2SEM with controlled layer thickness, composition and interfaces will provide a platform to reveal novel band structures, electron correlations and topological phases, supporting a rich variety of new phenomena.