Research

2D materials, which are atomically thin crystalline materials, have gained tremendous interest in the field of material science and solid-state physics. Graphene, a semi-metallic (zero-gap) semiconductor, is the most well studied 2D material.  Over the last decade other 2D semiconductors which have sizeable band bandgaps and tuneable band structure, such as such as MoS_2, GeS, and 2D-tellurium, have garnered increasing attention. Our focus is the design and fabrication of new 2D material-based devices for diagnostic sensors and photovoltaic devices.

Biomarker protein detection using 2D materials

Biomarkers are measurable indicators that help determine if a person may have or be at risk of developing a disease.  This project leverages the unique properties of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), including high surface-to-volume ratio, band structure tunability, and high mobility, to detect biomarker proteins at ultra-low concentrations. The objective of this multi-disciplinary project is to develop a new simple tool to rapidly detect multiple biomarker proteins of Alzheimer’s disease.

Volatile organic compound (VOC) and industrial gas detection using 2D materials

VOCs have also been identified as potential biomarkers for a variety of conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, lung cancer, and Parkinson’s disease.  Current methods used to detection VOCs such as gas chromatography−mass spectrometry are limited to laboratory testing. The research team is investigating the use of 2D materials for the detection and identification of VOCs and industrial gases.

Fabrication of Flexible Si Heterojunction Solar Cells

In collaboration with a Canadian industrial partner, we are developing new flexible and light-weight solar cells using two materials: ultra-absorbing MoS₂ layers and flexible monocrystalline silicon.