Solution-processed semiconductors have much potential to produce inexpensive, high-performance optoelectronic materials that can be easily integrated into existing device platforms or onto lightweight and flexible structures. The goal of our research is to understand and control the optoelectronic properties of two classes of solution-processed semiconductors: chalcogenide nanocrystals self-assembled into ordered, 3D solids [1] and halide perovskite nanocrystals, thin films, and bulk single crystals [2,3].

We synthesize these materials in solution using air-free techniques and characterize them with electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and visible and infrared spectroscopy. We also specialize in applying micro-spectroscopy to regions of reduced disorder in order to evaluate these materials’ full potential and to quantify the effects of material heterogeneity. Ultimately, we will use this experimental information to build models that describe and predict the properties of these new materials and will be used to design and realize optoelectronic devices.

1. Binary Superlattices of Infrared Plasmonic and Excitonic Nanocrystals. S. Brittman. N. A.  Mahadik, S. B. Qadri, P. Y. Yee, J. G. Tischler, J. E. Boercker. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 12, 24271- 24280 (2020).

2. Understanding Detrimental and Beneficial Grain Boundary Effects in Halide Perovskites. G.W.P. Adhyaksa, S. Brittman, H. Abolinš, A. Lof, X. Li, J.D. Keelor,  Y. Luo, T. Duevski, R.M.A. Heeren, S.R. Ellis, D.P. Fenning, and E.C. Garnett. Advanced Materials, 1804792 (2018).

3. Measuring n and k at the Microscale in Single Crystals of CH3NH3PbBr3 Perovskite. S. Brittman and E.C. Garnett. Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 120, 616-620 (2016).

key words

colloidal nanocrystals; superlattices; halide perovskites; micro-spectroscopy; optoelectronics; photophysics; nanomaterials

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants