MBE growth of high quality single Quantum Dots

Self assembled quantum dots are one of the more promising candidates for the creation of secure quantum communication systems. Their characteristics can be likened to "artificial atoms" yet they can be incorporated into standard electrical devices to make LEDs for example.
A key challenge remaining in the field is the growth of arrays of quantum dots in controlled locations for future quantum circuitry and demonstration of on chip computation.

The student will be heavily involved in the fabrication of arrays of nano-templates and subsequent growth via Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) to create the arrays of quantum dots. Aspects of both the structural and optical properties will need to be optimised in order to achieve the required properties for the application concerned - namely the wavelength of emission but also exploring size and density control. Optical characterisation of the grown samples by photo-luminescence at cryogenic temperatures will also form a key part of the project.

The project is a collaboration between the Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Physics departments at the University of Sheffield. The successful candidate will work in the Semiconductor Materials and Devices group (SMD) of the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering.