Investigation of Ga2O3-based semiconductors for ultraviolet optoelectronic devices

About the Project

This project aims to develop and understand advanced semiconductor materials for deep ultraviolet (DUV) optoelectronic devices, a rapidly growing field with applications of major societal and economic impact. Devices such as solar‑blind UV photodetectors are critical for environmental monitoring, biological and chemical sensing, flame detection, and secure communications.

The research will focus on alpha-phase gallium oxide (α-Ga₂O₃) and its alloys, which are particularly promising for UV optoelectronics due to their ultra‑wide bandgap and the exceptional potential to tune operation wavelengths across the UV spectrum. Until recently, progress in this material system was limited by its metastable nature, which posed significant challenges for reliable synthesis. Advances in growth techniques have now overcome these barriers, opening the door to fundamental and applied research opportunities. However, the physical mechanisms governing UV detection in Ga₂O₃‑based materials remain poorly understood, both experimentally and theoretically. Addressing this knowledge gap is essential for the development of efficient next‑generation UV devices.

The student will investigate the structural, chemical, and optical properties of α‑Ga₂O₃ alloys at the nanoscale, using state‑of‑the‑art characterisation techniques. The project will capitalise on the world-leading semiconductor characterisation capabilities of the Semiconductor Physics group at the University of Strathclyde, including scanning electron microscopes [1], photoluminescence [2], Raman, UV-vis spectrophotometry [3] and photoconduction [4]. High‑quality samples will be provided through established international collaborations with academic and industrial partners, ensuring access to state‑of‑the‑art materials. This approach will allow the student to build an in‑depth understanding of how material synthesis influences optoelectronic behaviour, ultimately contributing to the optimisation of Ga₂O₃‑based devices for ultraviolet applications.

Funding Notes

There is no funding for this project (self-funded students only).

Please contact f.massabuau@strath.ac.uk to discuss potential applications for scholarship.