Christopher Petoukhoff, Ultrafast Spectroscopy: a Tool for Studying Electron Dynamics in Mixed-Dimensional Heterostructures

Speaker: Christopher Petoukhoff, Femtosecond Spectroscopy Unit

Title: Ultrafast spectroscopy: A tool for studying electron dynamics in mixed-dimensional heterostructures

Abstract: The motion of electrons through semiconductor heterostructures is the key driving force of all modern-day electronic devices. Understanding the dynamics of electrons in materials is key to developing more efficient semiconductors and novel devices. In order to study fundamental electron dynamic processes in semiconductors, such as charge transfer or recombination, we need to use techniques that are capable of probing electronic transitions at ultrafast time scales – which occur on the order of tens of femtoseconds (i.e., 10-14 s) to few nanoseconds (i.e., 10-9 s). Using ultrafast transient spectroscopy, we investigate charge transfer and recombination rates in emerging mixed-dimensional heterostructures, which have great potential to be used as few-nanometer-thick optoelectronic devices.

The presentation will be followed by a discussion with soft drinks and pizza. Feel free to join!