Research

I am a second year PhD student researching thin film growth using Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) with an interest in topological materials displaying unique electrical behaviour which may be utilised in practical devices. One such material I am growing and characterising is SrMnSb₂, which shows potentially novel optoelectronic properties when synthesised as a thin film (a poster providing a brief overview of this work is shown below). Other concurrent work includes investigation of semi-metal and semiconductor interfaces on varying substrates and growth of other proposed topological insulators.

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Skills & Experience

I am trained in the use of two MBE systems with the capability of substrate cleaning via ion bombardment and annealing in addition to numerous in situ analysis methods such as Reflection High Energy Electron Diffraction (RHEED) and Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy (STM). In addition, I am also able to carry out Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) using the equipment provided by microscopy RTP. Throughout the first year of my studies and in conjunction with the reset of the surface science group, we commissioned a new MBE system with capacity for numerous deposition cells and a suite of analysis tools. During this process, I have gained considerable practical experience building vacuum systems, servicing equipment and producing homemade solutions for specific experiment needs (including building a new effusion cell – image shown in slideshow).

MBE Systems

Contact Details

Email: thomas.rehaag@warwick.ac.uk

Office: P459, Physics Building, University of Warwick