PhD project: Scattering studies of ferroelectric semiconductors
Project description
Recently, it has been postulated that SnTe is a topological insulator while a related compound PbTe is not. These systems are semiconducting and possibly ferroelectric. The goal of this project is to understand the low-energy lattice dynamics and ferroelectric properties through the use of neutron inelastic scattering. These studies will be performed at ambient conditions and under high pressures and electric fields. The project will involve the growth of single crystals of these compounds and the study of them at large scale neutron and x ray facilities. The results will be compared with model calculations.
Project supervisor
- Dr Christopher Stock (School of Physics & Astronomy, University of Edinburgh)
The project supervisor welcomes informal enquiries about this project.
Find out more about this research area
The links below summarise our research in the area(s) relevant to this project:
- Find out more about Quantum Ordering.
- Find out more about the Institute for Condensed Matter and Complex Systems.
What next?
- Find out how to apply for our PhD degrees.
- Find out about fees and funding and studentship opportunities.
- View and complete the application form (on the main University website).
- Find out how to contact us for more information.