Research

Jaron Kropp and Dr. Gougousi

Our research focuses on controlling thin-film growth and interfaces in oxides and 2D materials using Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD). We emphasize defect engineering and structure–property relationships to enable electronic, optical, and energy applications.

Research Focus

  • Thin-film growth and interfaces
  • Surface chemistry
  • Structure–property relationships
  • 2D and low-dimensional materials

Experimental Approach

  • Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD)
  • Physical vapor deposition (PVD)
  • Integrated thin-film characterization

Our work combines synthesis with detailed characterization to understand how microscopic structure influences measurable material properties.

Why It Matters

Controlling materials at the nanoscale is essential for next-generation electronics, energy systems, and photonic devices. Our work links atomic-scale growth processes to measurable electronic and optical performance.

Capabilities

  • Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD)
  • Thin-film characterization (ellipsometry, FTIR, electrical transport)
  • Access to AFM and SEM facilities

Representative Materials

Monolayer MoS2 flakes.

MoS2 flakes

MoS2 flakes

TiO2 thin films with tunable optical response.

TiO2 films