Lasing from PHOtonic Cavities
RESEARCH PROGRAMMES
P1: Nanotechnology for energy harvesting
P5: Ultrafast phenomena at the nanoscale
PhD PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Two-dimensional (2d) materials are, undoubtedly, going to play an important role in the next generation photonic and optoelectronic industry. With a huge light-matter interaction they are the ideal materials for nanoscale devices active material. Two-dimensional (2D) materials form atomically thin sheets and can be obtained either by growing a thin film or by exfoliating layers from a bulk crystal.
The route to obtain the 2D material plays an important role on its applicability on devices. Lateral size, defect density or doping are just few parameters that will rule the applicability of the materials in different optoelectronic devices.
We propose a PhD project in which the candidate will study the photophysics and photonic properties of 2D materials obtained by 2 different methods. To do so, he/she will acquire skills on 2D monolayer production via both Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and Liquid phase exfoliation (LPE). To improve sample preparation, the candidate is offered to experience a six-months scientific secondment at Aixtron or at Kassel University, in collaboration with either Prof. Michael Heuken (expert on CVD) or Prof. Claudia Backes (expert on LPE), respectively.
In order to characterize samples, the student will learn conventional spectroscopic and microscopy techniques such as absorption, photoluminescence or AFM. At this stage, the PhD candidate is prepared to perform a deep characterization of the 2D materials and study the coupling of the 2D materials emission with photonic structures.
A deep spectroscopic characterization of the 2D nanosheets involves being trained on Time-resolved photoluminescence or femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy at IMDEA Nanociencia.
Optical coupling between 2D materials and photonic structures involves the fabrication of distributed feedback lasers with 2D-based layers deposited on top of diffractive structures, such as 1D gratings obtained by nanoimprint lithography or 2D photonic cavities via template-assisted self-assembly. Additionally, the fabrication of microlasers based on 2D materials doped fibres obtained by electrospinning will be addressed.
In summary, we propose a PhD project challenging but feasible considering the scientific team involved. We expect the candidate to reach a position of research maturity able of influencing decisions that will affect its mid- and long-term future. The student will benefit from all the internal programs about career development at IMDEA Nanociencia.
Figure 1 (Left to right): Starting bulk material dispersed in solvent in a stainless-steel beaker, same elements but under sonication when bulk material starts to exfoliate, final dispersion with high concentration of monolayer
APPLICANT’S REQUIREMENTS
Position profile:
- Bachelor in physics, chemistry, material scientist, physics engineer or similar.
- Master in photonics, nanotechnology, nanoscience, lasers or in a related field.
- Good English level, both written and spoken.
- Teamwork skills (highly important).
In addition to the previously enumerated requirements the following items are interesting for the position:
- Programming skills (Matlab, Wolfram Mathematica, C++, labview…).
- Experience with any of the above-mentioned characterisation techniques.
- Experience with liquid phase exfoliation.
- Experience in nanoscience/nanotechnology.
RESEARCH GROUP DESCRIPTION
Dr. Victor Vega-Mayoral has a vast experience on exfoliation and characterisation of novel 2D materials. His research focuses on monolayer colloidal dispersions of 2D, their characterization towards device fabrication and studying optical gain on nanomaterials.
Prof. Juan Cabanillas is an expert in ultrafast spectroscopy and coordinator of the Time-Resolved Spectroscopy programme of IMDEA Nanociencia. His knowledge spans to fabrication and characterization of photonic structures.
Emilio Pérez’s is an expert on chemistry of 2d materials. Including novel exfoliation methods and has experience on the fabrication of (Opto)electronic devices.
Prof. Claudia Backes is a group leader at Kasel University (Germany). Her area of expertise falls within the chemistry of low-dimensional materials.
Prof. Michael Heuken is Vice President of advanced technologies on Aixtron. Aixtron is a leading provider of deposition equipment to semiconductor industry whose technology solutions are used by a diverse range of customers worldwide to build advanced components for materials.
RESEARCH SUPERVISOR
Dr Victor Vega-Mayoral
victor.vega@imdea.org
Research Group website: https://www.nanociencia.imdea.org/es/imdea-nanociencia/personas/item/victor-vega-mayoral