Scanning Probe Microscopy and Plasmonics Group
Research
Research Areas
Conducting Oxides and Conducting Polymers
Epsilon Near Zero Systems
Emission Control with ultra-thin films
If you are excited by any of these, then do Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of our actors (Plasmons and Excitons) on the materials (ENZ, TMDC, Oxides) stage, exploring unique properties and groundbreaking applications across various scientific and technological domains.
Light - Matter Interactions
Electrical Plasmonics
Investigating tunnelling induced light emission from metal-metal and metal-semiconductor junctions. Here the quantum laws give rise to a stunning interplay between electrons and photons. It arises from the tunnelling of electrons through energy barriers and leads to emission characteristic of the material properties, the dielectric environment and the fundamentals of light-matter interaction. We explore its theoretical underpinnings, experimental manifestations, and its potential in nanophotonics, quantum information processing, and advanced sensing technologies.
Exciton Physics in 2D Systems
Excitons are intriguing quasi-particles, formed through the delicate interplay of Coulomb forces and quantum confinement, they wield significant influence over the optical and electronic properties of TMDCs. They play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of next-generation optoelectronic devices and quantum technologies. We use mechanical strain to engineer the optical and electronic response of 2D TMDCs and elicit novel responses unrealized otherwise.
Noise Spectroscopy
Noise spectroscopy opens a unique window into the dynamics of systems by studying fluctuations. We use low-frequency pink noise (1/f noise) to investigate transitions in various physical systems ranging from insulator-metal transitions in distributed tunnel junctions (Au-PDMS composites) to the response of ENZ materials it sheds light on the inner workings of these systems and finds applications in modern electronics.
Nano Letters, 23, 6629, 2023
Nanotechnology, 33, 495203, 2022
ACS Nano, 13, 10448, 2019
Faraday Discussions, 205, 121, 2017
Scientific Reports 7, 3530, 2017
Phys. Rev. B, 94, 035443, 2016
Doped Semiconductors
Nano Express, 3, 035007, 2022
Adv. Photonics Research, 3, 2100153, 2022
J. Appl. Phys. 127, 043102, 2020,
J. Chem. Phys. 152, 064704, 2020
Nanotechnology, 29, 105701, 2018
Scientific Reports 6, 28468, 2016
Conducting Oxides and Polymers
Two remarkable materials that defy conventional notions of electrical behaviour. While conducting oxides bridge the gap between insulators and metals, conducting polymers offer a synergy of organic chemistry and electrical conductivity, opening doors to flexible electronics and novel energy technologies. We investigate the optoelectronics of ZnO/ITO/TiO2 and PEDOT:PSS to study basic physics and develop newer technologies.
Epsilon Near Zero (ENZ) Systems
Homogeneous ENZ systems are an intriguing class of homogeneous materials that challenge conventional notions of light-matter interactions. In these extraordinary systems, the permittivity approaches zero at specific wavelengths leading to unconventional properties of electromagnetic waves.
Emission Control with ultra-thin films
Optical coatings and patterning of epsilon-near-zero materials for spectrally selective and broadband absorber/emitter applications.
Nanostructured Hybrids
Transport and Optical Properties
A synergistic combination of diverse components brings forth unique properties and functionalities. These materials, born of nanostructures of metals, semiconductors or eutectics and polymers offer a wealth of responses and functionalities that exceed the sum of their parts. We delve into applications of nanostructured hybrid materials in electronics, photovoltaics and thermoelectrics. Join us to explore how these hybrids redefine the boundaries of material science and engineering, unlocking new avenues for innovation and technological advancement.
Nanotechnology, 34, 365501, 2023
Nanotechnology, 32, 175202, 2021
ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, 13, 23771, 2021
PCCP, 22, 27861, 2020
Nanoscale Advances 1, 2435, 2019
Sensors 21, 1190, 2021
Nature Communications 7, 11665, 2016
Sensors 21, 1190, 2021
Imaging Biologocal Systems
​​​​​​​​​​​Using scanning probes to image biological systems has opened a new dimension in visualizing bio-systems -- from nanoscale protein oligomers binding onto microtubules to microscale cellular structures Simultaneous fluorescence and atomic force microscopy on eukaryotic cells and associated organelle to study cell functions. Unravelling the mysteries of life's building blocks, from individual molecules to cellular structures, paving the way for breakthroughs in medicine, biomaterials, and beyond.