Optimization of Thin-film Colloidal Quantum Dots Photodiode for heavy-metal-free SWIR Sensing

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are promising optoelectronic materials, offering solution-based processing and adaptable light absorption. Various emerging technologies investigate the ability to sense and detect light in the shortwave infrared spectrum (SWIR). Autonomous cars, smart agriculture, eye tracking for AR and VR applications, face recognition, surveillance, machine vision and new microscopy techniques can take advantage of additional information found in SWIR. Quantum dot-based thin-film photodetectors show potential for cost-effective, high-res SWIR sensing. However, their use of restricted elements like Pb and Hg hinders adoption. Exploring heavy metal-free QDs for SWIR sensors is crucial to overcome these limitations and create efficient, tunable, and environmentally friendly SWIR image sensors. 

Topic 

The purpose of this master’s thesis and internship is to investigate the key performance metrics of thin-film SWIR photodetectors based on heavy metal free absorber materials. 

The simple full thin-film photodiode consists of two contacts including one transparent electrode, electron and hole transport or blocking layers and active material. In depth characterization of the active material and the full stack is crucial to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the device characteristics to improve the signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the photodetector. The master’s student/intern will be involved in fabrication and characterization of thin-film photodiode stack in the state-of-the-art facilities including imec's cleanroom and dedicated thin-film labs. The candidate will learn crucial lab skills of thin film deposition and fabrication of nano devices and both electrical and optical characterizations. The research will progress with careful guidance of a PhD student to optimize device characteristics and SWIR image sensor. 

The candidate 

You are a highly motivated master’s student in nano-engineering, physics, chemistry, material science, electrical engineering, or related. You have a genuine interest in the processing of thin-film semiconductors, and electrical and optical characterizations. You will be expected to work safely in a cleanroom environment and acquire processing and lab skills. It is expected that you will present results regularly.  You are a team player and have good communication skills as you will work in a multidisciplinary and multicultural team spanning several imec departments. Given the international character of imec, an excellent knowledge of English is a prerequisite. 

Required background: nano-engineering, chemistry, physics, materials science or electrical engineering with strong affinity for device physics 

Type of Project: Combination of internship and thesis 

Master's degree: Master of Engineering Science 

Duration:    6-9 months 

Supervisor: Jan Genoe (EE, Nano) 

For more information or application, please contact Itai Lieberman (itai.lieberman@imec.be).

Imec allowance will be provided for students studying at a non-Belgian university.