Scanning tunneling spectroscopy

University of Geneva , 1 or 2 semesters
Tunneling spectroscopy is a very powerful technique to gain insight into the electron density of states near the Fermi level.
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Scanning tunneling spectroscopy
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Those states are relevant for a number of fundamental phenomena observed in condensed matter, from the simple electron conduction to more complex behaviour such as superconductivity. Tunneling spectroscopy using planar tunnel junctions was among the key experiments in understanding conventional superconductors. The scanning tunneling microscope has brought tunneling spectroscopy a step further, enabling spatially resolved mapping of the electron density of states with unprecedented resolution. However, there is a debate about what STM spectroscopy is really measuring. This project will address this question through a set of carefully designed experiments, where tunneling spectra obtained using planar and STM tunnel junctions are compared in detail.

  • Duration of participation in the poject can be flexible.
    Number of places avaialble: 1 per semester.

Prerequisites

  • Bachelor in Physics + one first year of Master in Physics.
  • Minimum GPA 3.4

Important note: 

Students must remain registered as a student at their U.S. or Canadian home institution while participating in the program. The student's home institution must complete the Learning Agreement after acceptance into a project, even if credits will not be transferred to that institution. Transfer of credits is decided by the students' home institution.

Submitting an application, does not guarantee that the student will be offered a placement. The research projects are also available to our domestic degree students; therefore, projects may already be full at the time of applying. Final decision on your admission is solely taken by the Research Supervisor at the host institution.