Final Year/MSc projects Academic Year 2011/12
Dr David Carey
1. Properties of Graphene (MSc)
Graphene won the 2010 Nobel Prize in physics. Several projects are possible looking at
the fundamental properties of graphene, density of states and the electronic properties.
This is a very exciting and fast moving area and this is an in-depth study that would suit a
student looking to go forward to do doctoral research. Good matlab experience is needed.
2. Applications of Graphene and/or Carbon nanotubes (Final year)
The project is ideal for someone who has a strong interest in the business or technology
development aspects of a new material. The project will be literature and web based and
will explore the possible applications of graphene and/or carbon nanotubes; identify market
areas and relate these areas to the fundamental properties of the materials. Several
projects in this area are possible.
3. Visualisation of Graphene (Final Year)
The project is based on using matlab or other suitable packages to visualise some of
electronic properties of graphene. Knowledge of visualisation software as well as an
interest in nanomaterials, especially graphene is essential. This is an all round project with
many different aspects of the material to be explored.
4. Properties of Bilayer Graphene (MSc)
Put two layers of graphene together and depending on how they are arranged you get
bilayer graphene (BLG). This project will focus on the properties of BLG and how it
compares with single layer graphene. Strong matlab experience is needed.
5. Quantum Tunnelling for Electronic Materials and Devices (MSc)
This is a wide ranging project which will suit a strong mathematical or theoretical student
with an interest in understanding how electron tunnelling can be related to material
properties and how this affects the tunnelling current. Strong matlab experience is needed.
6. Spectroscopy of Rare Earth Materials (Final Year/MSc)
This project will employ Matlab modelling to calculate the energy levels of rare earth ions in
different host semiconductors. Using experimental data, the project will try to identify the
lattice coordination and site of rare earth ions in materials. Strong matlab programming
and matrix manipulation is required. Would suit a student with a strong interest in
semiconductor materials and the optoelectronics.
Updated 4 Sept 2011.
If you are interested in any of these projects please email at David.Carey@surrey.ac.uk
in order to discuss the project in greater detail.