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Our group's research focuses on characterization and synthesis of novel structures using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and UHV MBE growth. We have leading research effort and expertise in electron nanocrystallography and spectroscopy, phase transitions and structures in ceramic oxides, in-situ UHV-TEM study of early stage growth of thin films. We use both experimental and theoretical techniques in our investigation. Our group has a UHV transmission electron microscope for in-situ growth, sintering and characterization, TEM specimen preparation equipments, software and expertise in molecular dynamics simulation, structure modeling and electron microscopy simulation and access to MRL facility of TEM, SEM and LEEM, clean room and the physical property measurement system.

Current research projects

Cluster Growth and Cluster dynamics: We are investigating growth kinetics and structure of epitaxial metallic clusters using transmission electron microscopy and molecular dynamics simulation. The goal is to obtain a fundamental understanding of cluster nucleation and growth through carefull experimental control of growth conditions and quantitative electronbeam chracterization. Applications of this study include self-assembly of nanoclusters and wires for nanoscience and nanotechnology, metal thin films for high technology and advanced catalyst.

Electron nanocrystallography and spectroscopy: This project is to develop electron nano-beam diffraction into a quantitative techniques for determination of atomic structure of nanometer-sized clusters, wires and buried interfaces and surfaces. We use field-emission gun electron microscopes for this investigation. The project involves extensive development of image processing techniques and understanding of electron diffraction. The project is geared toward nanostructure charcterization, which is one of main challenges in nanoscience and nanotechnology research.

Structure and phase transition of ceramic oxides: The aim of this research is to understand the relationship between microscopic structures and the macroscopic properties in complex oxides using electron nanodiffraction and microscopy. We are investigating the chemical and electronic phase separation in these materials and the electronic states of transition metal ions as a function of applied stress and doping.

We are studying the following materials

Nanometer-sized metallic clusters, wires and alloys; Carbon nanotubes; CMR oxides for electronic applications; and biomaterials and molecular thin films.