GRK 1782:  Functionalisation of Semiconductors

• Subject Area: Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: from 2012 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 192635911

Experiencing the limitations of modern technology has unfortunately become too common in our everyday life. The ever-increasing demand on computational power and network traffic require transmission and computation speeds beyond stalled clock rates; suboptimal lighting systems waste energy and sensors cannot offer the desired sensitivities. The RTG ¿Functionalization of Semiconductors¿ aims to contribute to surpassing several of these challenges. Here, we work on the development, characterization, and implementation of advanced functions to semiconductors using novel materials, thereby achieving integral system properties that go beyond what individual components can offer. The subject of the RTG is hence highly technology-relevant. One of the goals is the integration of III/V-semiconductors on Si-substrates, a highly competitive field of research that will revolutionize future applications in electronics and photonics. We furthermore focus on the understanding and application of the self-assembly of novel organic functionalities on planar semiconductors as well as on nanoparticles. These intermediate layers will allow a controlled functionalization of conventionally used semiconductors with new structures, which, in turn, will attribute novel properties to the entire system. This ambitious research program will attract excellent students and give them a brilliant opportunity for their academic education. During the course of their theses, the PhD students will experience different research topics like chemical and physical synthesis of molecules and layer structures, optoelectronic and structural characterization of materials as well as theoretical modeling. A structured PhD program will prepare the students for their careers in an optimal way. Its technical components are complemented with soft-skill elements such as specific training in project management and teamwork, presentation techniques, the profound knowledge of the English language and rhetoric skills. Here, the RTG builds on the broad portfolio offered by the Marburg University Research Academy (MARA).

• DFG Programme: Research Training Groups
• Applicant Institution: Philipps-Universität Marburg
• Spokesperson: Professorin Dr. Kerstin Volz
• Participating Researchers: Professor Dr. Sergei Baranovski; Professor Dr. Sangam Chatterjee; Professorin Dr. Stefanie Dehnen; Professor Dr. Bruno Eckhardt (†); Professor Dr. Wolfram Heimbrodt; Professor Dr. Carsten von Hänisch; Professor Dr. Ulrich Höfer; Professor Dr. Stephan W. Koch (†); Dr. Gerson Mette; Dr. Beatriz Pelaz; Professor Dr. Wolfgang Stolz; Professor Dr. Ralf Tonner-Zech