Masters (MSc) course in Nanoelectronics and nanomechanics
Full-time MSc study entails a 12-month programme, split between Leeds and Sheffield campuses. Students must complete eight modules, and may choose four out of the six modules in the second semester (modules 5NE, 6NE, 7, 7NE, 7NM and 8NE). The lecture modules are each valued at 15M (Masters credits), while the project is valued at 60M, giving a total of 180M credits.
Above: Image of a gold nanoparticle.
Module 1: Generic methodologies for nanotechnology (SOMS5100)
This module covers the principles of nanostructure production, laboratory preparation and the limitations of materials, including nanoscale fabrication and characterisation technologies, and commissioning as well as working in ultra-clean environments.
Above: AFM image of a quantum dot.
Module 2: Inorganic semiconductor nanostructures (PHY6002)
This module covers the physics and technology of semiconductor nanostructures, considering both the present status and possible future trends. It includes ultra-small and low dimensional devices (quantum wire and quantum dot lasers, single electron devices); self-assembly of semiconductor nanostructures; physical processes in semiconductor nanostructures; electronic and optical characterisation techniques for semiconductor nanostructures.
Above: Photograph of equipment used for preparing nanostructures.
Module 3: Nanoscale magnetic materials and devices (MAT6390)
This module will review basic magnetic properties, and demonstrate how control of the nanostructure in bulk materials, optimised growth of thin films and multi-layers and nanoscale patterning are opening up new areas of science and technology.
Module 4NE: Microfluidics (SOMS5240M)
This module includes an introduction to flow physics and the physics of thin liquid films. It describes micro channel flows and the issues involved in scaling channel size down to nanoscale dimensions, and includes a discussion of current and potential applications of micro and nano-fluidics, including microflow sensors and actuators, micro-mixers, micro-droplet generation and micro-pumps.
Module 5NE: Quantum computing (ELEC5210)
This module covers the applications of quantum mechanical systems for computation. The potential advantages of quantum computers over classical computers, and the possible construction of such systems, will be described. The module will touch on the use of quantum computing for secure quantum communications and quantum teleportation.
Module 6NE: Micro and nano electromechanical systems (ELEC5500)
This module aims to provide students with a working knowledge of the principles of operation, physical structure, methods of fabrication and properties of a range of micro and nano electromechanical systems.
Above: Fluorescence of polymers and polymer additives.
Module 7: Organic Semiconductors (PHY6007)
This module covers the physics and applications of low-molecular and polymeric organic semiconductors. The first part of the module will discuss how semiconducting properties can arise in organic materials, and the issues of light absorption and emission, charge injection, and charge transport in organic semiconductors, as well as the processing of organic semiconductors. The second part of the module will discuss current and future devices based on organic semiconductors: photocopiers, synthetic metals, organic transistors, organic light emitting devices and organic photovoltaics.
Module 7NE: Molecular electronics (ELEC5220)
This module will examine recent progress in the development of molecular-scale circuit elements, and potential techniques for their directed assembly into circuits and onto conventional semiconductor devices. Topics covered will include: molecular-scale elements; molecules that emulate conventional electronic circuit elements; logic circuits using molecular diodes; applications of carbon nanotubes in electronics; semiconductor nanocrystals; directed self-assembly of molecular circuits; properties of DNA and its potential applications in molecular electronics; possible self-assembled molecular-scale circuits of the future.
Above: Single carbon-nanotubes being picked up from an
aligned CNT-bundle layer by a nano-manipulator.
Image by Yong Peng.
Module 7NM: Nanostructures, nanopatterning and nanomechanics (MAT6720)
This module combines an introduction to nanostructures, such as free-standing nanoobjects or assemblies of these, or nanopores in porous materials, with methods of nanopatterning and nanocharacterisation, including nanometrology and nanomechanical testing.
Module 8NE: Next generation silicon technologies (ELEC5200)
The aim of this module is to familiarise students with the most important aspects of silicon chip fabrication technology, and to gain an appreciation of the technical challenges to future developments and the proposed solutions. The latter will be explored with specific reference to the Semiconductor Industry Association Technology Roadmap.
Above: Photograph of a student using a high resolution field emission gun (FEG) transmission electron microscope.
Projects
Full-time MSc students take a substantial research-type project during the study period. Projects are generally based in one of the nanoscience/technology research groups at either Leeds or Sheffield University, and involve a structured experimental investigation of a research or development nature.
