Research

IRG-1: Towards Spin-Preserving, Heterogeneous Spin Networks

The IRG-1 interdisciplinary research team is laying the foundation for the creation of spin-preserving networks for next-generation information processing. Our team will accomplish this through the study of the fundamental interactions within the "unit cell" of a prototype spin network.

We will focus on the fundamental elements of a spin injection network. The first of these elements is injection/extraction; that is, efficient generation of spin-polarized free carriers and injection into an optimal channel, and extraction from that channel for subsequent analysis and manipulation. The second element is transport of spin within network structures - conveying a spin-state from its point of origin to remote network locations while maintaining the spin polarization.

An essential aspect of our research is the development of spin transport devices composed of materials chosen for their ability to preserve spin polarization and enhance opportunities for spin functionality. In particular, our focus will be on the emerging science of silicon and carbon as spin materials.

Central to our effort is the development and application of spin probes that are applicable to general classes of materials and are not reliant on particular optical or spin-orbit properties.

Understanding spin devices will require a thorough understanding of and control over the constituent materials and interfaces between them. Thus, a comprehensive program of spin, charge and structural microscopy will be employed to better understand our materials systems and optimize their properties.

IRG-1 Faculty

• P. Chris Hammel, Professor and Ohio Regents Eminent Scholar, Department of Physics (Co-leader)
• Ezekiel Johnston-Halperin, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics (Co-leader)
• Arthur J. Epstein, Distinguished University Professor, Department of Physics and Department of Chemistry
• Jay A. Gupta, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics
• Roland K. Kawakami, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy at University of California, Riverside
• Julia S. Meyer, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics
• Nitin P. Padture, College of Engineering Distinguished Professor, Department of Materials Science and Engineerin
• Jonathan P. Pelz, Professor, Department of Physics
• Steven A. Ringel, Professor and Neal Smith Chair, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering
• David G. Stroud, Professor, Department of Physics
• Wolfgang Windl, Associate Professor, Department of Materials Science and Engineering