Our research vision is to explore the structure-electronic structure relationship in inorganic solids and how this manifests in their overall physico-chemical characteristics to integrate them into opto-electronic devices. We are an interdisciplinary team of experimentalists with key expertise in thin film synthesis, surface and interface chemistry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
In general terms, the research program covers four key areas:
Hard X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (HAXPES)
HAXPES is one of the most powerful techniques for studying the local chemical states and electronic structure of extended materials and heterostructures, e.g., those central to electronic devices. The high X-ray energies used in this technique enable larger depth information, making it possible to study buried layers and interfaces. We work on developing and applying the technique across a broad spectrum of materials, including new measurement strategies and in-situ and in-operando approaches for the often complex structures found in devices at synchrotrons and in the laboratory. Within the context of X-ray-based characterisation techniques, we also have a core interest in establishing a fundamental understanding of X-ray irradiation effects on inorganic samples and what we can learn about the material itself based on the radiation effects observed.
Sol-gel methods for thin films
Sol-gel can offer low-cost, scalable pathways towards high-quality, ultra-thin films of metal oxides. We focus on developing methods for a range of oxides, concentrating on tuning their electronic structure through strain engineering and incorporation of dopants and using polymer substrates for flexible electronics. We target both their application in opto-electronic devices and use the achieved high-quality samples to explore interesting physico-chemical aspects of the materials.
Materials and interfaces in power electronics
Wide and ultra-wide band gap materials are the key to enabling devices to operate at higher voltages, frequencies, and temperatures to enable the application of power electronics in areas such as electric vehicles, photovoltaics, and power supplies. We work on both potential future materials (e.g. gallium oxide) and current industry devices based on silicon carbide. Beyond investigating bulk properties of different crystal polymorphs and thin film orientations, we mainly study interfaces in power electronic devices using hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Inorganic materials for biosensors
Moving from enzymatic to non-enzymatic biosensors requires an in-depth knowledge of the chemistry and electronic structure of the used inorganic nanomaterials. We work on developing and optimising synthesis routes for oxide nanostructures and improve our understanding of how synthesis choices influence the materials’ physico-chemical properties and, ultimately, their sensing performance.
Associated research themes
Advanced functional materials and interfaces
Energy and sustainable chemistry
