HRD - 0420516
PI - Warren E. Collins
With NSF support, Fisk University will establish the Center for Physics and Chemistry of Materials (CPCoM). The research focus of the proposed Center is the study of advanced materials, novel processing methods, new properties and phenomena that will enable new devices for science, industry and medicine. Phenomena and their applications will focus on detection, emission and modulation of electromagnetic radiation based on selected electronic and optical materials in the form of crystals, nanomaterials, glass-ceramics and thin films. The Center will pursue four research thrusts: (1) controlled defect formation during processing of wide-gap semiconductors for optical and electro-optical applications (crystal growth and materials science), (2) fabrication of metal and semiconductor nanocrystals by pulsed laser deposition: linear and nonlinear optical properties (chemical physics and optics), (3) mesoscale materials for photonic applications (applied optics and spectroscopy), (4) modification, and characterization of new thin film optical materials (surface sciences).
Intellectual Merit of the Proposed Activity The Fisk University CREST Center will contribute to the knowledge base of electronic and optical materials and related technologies. The Center for Physics and Chemistry of Materials will address some of the critical issues in this area, requiring expertise in materials science, chemical physics, optics and spectroscopy, solid-state physics and surface science.
Broader Impact of the Proposed Activity Through strong collaborations with other universities, national research laboratories, and industry, the Fisk CREST Center will serve as a regional resource center that will enhance the access and involvement of minority students and faculty from HBCU's in Tennessee and its neighboring states. The establishment of CPCoM is in alignment with the long term planning and strategy of the university.
