The isolation of single-atomic layer graphene has led to a surge of interest in other layered crystals with strong in-plane bonds and weak, van der Waals-like, interlayer coupling. Heterostructures made by stacking different 2D crystals on top of each other provide a platform for creating new artificial crystals with potential for discoveries and applications. In this PhD project you will study 2D materials with a wide range of fundamental properties and ranging from semi- to superconductors. You will work on advancing the fabrication technology for hybrid layered devices and also explore the potential of the van der Waals heterostructures in photonics applications. You will perform advanced optics experiments in the state-of-the-art laboratories of the Sheffield group and will work on novel device fabrication in the modern clean room.
The start date is 1st October 2014 (negotiable).
All formal and informal inquiries: Dr Alexander Tartakovskii, a.tartakovskii@sheffield.ac.uk.
Further information about the group: see http://ldsd.group.shef.ac.uk/research/2d-materials/