MPhys Physics

This course unit delves into the fundamentals of semiconductor materials and devices, exploring both their theoretical underpinnings and practical applications. It begins by reviewing key concepts in solid-state physics, including band theory, carrier distributions, and electronic transport mechanisms such as diffusion and drift. The course also covers essential topics like carrier recombination, p-n junctions, and the behaviour of semiconductors under optical excitation. The understanding of these basic phenomena is then applied to the operation of common semiconductor devices such as solar cells and LEDs.

As the course progresses, it dives deeper into advanced topics such as nanoscale electronic transport, including the Landauer-Büttiker formalism, which describes transport in ballistic conductors. It also covers the fabrication and characteristics of nanostructures like quantum wells, quantum dots, and carbon nanotubes. The course concludes with discussions on cutting-edge materials and their applications, such as 2D semiconductors and graphene, in the context of next-generation electronic devices. This comprehensive exploration equips students with a strong foundation in both semiconductor physics and the emerging technologies shaping modern electronics. 

To explore electronic transport processes, from bulk structures down to low dimensional ones, in relevant materials for nanoelectronics including semiconductors and van der Waals materials. To apply these ideas to practical devices including light-emitting diodes and nanoscale transistors with improved characteristics. 

On the successful completion of the course, students will be able to:  

ILO 1

Explain the concept of conductance, from the familiar Ohm’s law of macroscopic diffusive conductors down to the quantized conductance of mesoscopic ballistic conductors.

ILO 2

Explain the processes of light emission, absorption, and transport in semiconductor materials

ILO 3

Outline the materials used in optoelectronic devices and advanced semiconductor growth techniques, including methods of material doping

ILO 4

Employ physical concepts to describe the behaviour of carriers which are confined in two, one and zero dimensional systems.

ILO 5

Explain the principles behind the realisation and application of electronic structures, including semiconductor (light-emitting) diodes and nanoscale transistors.

Two one hour, live in-person lectures per week where the core material with examples will be delivered. The recordings of these lectures, as well as the corresponding presentation materials, will be on the course page. The lectures are accompanied by brief summary notes. This is augmented by sets of problems or online quizzes (where the students get automatic feedback) released every two weeks. A Piazza discussion forum is also provided where students can ask questions with answers provided by other students and the unit lead. 

Streetman, B & Banerjee S, Solid State Electronic Devices