The Center for Nanoscale Systems hosted 4 Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) students during the summer as part of the NSF's National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network (NNIN). The 2006 REU Program took place from June 11th - August 19th, 2006. The 2006 CNS/NNIN REU interns were:

Michael Adams - University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
Harvard PI - Dr. David C. Bell
Project Title - Research and Development of E-beam lithography using a TEM at 200KV

To read Michael’s final report click here

Abstract - Using 200KV electrons to produce e-beam writing has advantages over currently employed methods, some benefits are reduced backscattered effects which would lead to smaller pattern sizes. Part one of this project would involve setting up a Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), to perform e-beam writing, Part 2 would be more clean room based to develop differing substrates that could be used for "photo resists", it would be expected that current approaches would have to be discarded and a whole new approach considered.

About Michael - He is interested in condensed matter physics (experiment and theory) in addition to biophysics and high energy physics. Michael enjoys the hands-on experience of working in a lab and the opportunity of discovery even if it wasn't what was originally intended.

Matt Blosser - Carleton College
Harvard PI - Professor Michael Aziz
Project Title - Nanoscale Materials Morphology Control using a Focused Ion Beam

Abstract - This project will study the evolution of materials morphologies under Focused Ion Beam irradiation, and for the fabrication and evolution of morphologies that permit the development of a basic understanding of the ways in which the FIB stimulates mass transport resulting in morphology changes.

About Matt - His interests are in nano-physics, particle physics, and mathematics (specifically how math relates to physics.) He is looking forward to gaining an in-depth understanding of how nanoscale particles behave and interact with their environment.

Paul De Andrade - Georgia Institute of Technology
Harvard PIs - Dr. Erli Chen and Dr. Jiangdong (JD) Deng
Project Title - Nano-fabrication for Sub-micro Structures Using Soft-Lithography

To read Paul’s final report click here

Abstract - The goal of this project is to challenge the present resolution limit of soft-lithgraphy and develop the fabrication process for sub-micro meter structures. Students will study multiple advanced nano-fabrication technologies, including soft-lithography, E-beam lithography, resist techniques, thin-film deposition, scanning electronic microscope (SEM) imaging, and dry/wet etching processes.

About Paul - He is studying biomedical engineering with a concentration on cell and tissue engineering. Paul is looking forward to spending the summer focused entirely on research as that is very difficult for an undergraduate during a normal semester. He has received a number of recognitions and awards for academic achievement. Paul is a member of both the Golden Key International Honor Society and the National Dean's List. Additionally, he is also a recipient of the State of Georgia Hope Scholarship.

Julie Stern - SUNY - Stony Brook
Harvard PI - Professor Kenneth Crozier
Project Title - Photonic Crystals and Scanning Near-field Optical Microscopy

To read Julie’s final report click here

Abstract - Photonic crystals are periodic dielectric media that present new opportunities for controlling the emission and flow of light. We have recently demonstrated the ability of air-bridged photonic crystal slabs to act as filters and mirrors at visible wavelengths. These devices consist of thin (~200 nm membranes) of silicon nitride, into which a two-dimesional array of holes is etched. This opens the way for the demonstration of new free space optical components (e.g. polarizers) based on this technology. The realization of these new devices will require a combination of theory (numerical simulations), nanofabrication using electron and focused ion beam lithography and optical characterization using transmission and reflection spectroscopy. The successful candidate will work in Professor Crozier's group at designing, fabricating and testing new types of optical components based on photonic crystals. In addition, the candidate will gain exposure to work ongoing in the Crozier group on improved probes for scanning near-field optical microscopy. This will allow the nanometer-scale field distributions in photonic crystals to be measured.

About Julie - She is currently a second bachelor's degree candidate at SUNY-Stony Brook double majoring in physics and chemistry. Julie has a career interest in pursuing theoretical condensed matter physics. She has a background in physics, chemistry, applied mathematics, scientific computing, biomedical engineering, as well as biology and physiology. She states in her application to the NNIN REU program, "I particularly enjoy and am drawn to research problems at the interface between disciplines."

There were REU interns mentored by CNS staff members as part of other REU programs at Harvard. They are:

Kinga Anna Partyka - Rutgers
Harvard REU PI: Prof. Alan Aspuru-Guzik (CCB)
Mentor: Dr. Mike Stopa of CNS

Patricia (Patty) E. Voll - U. of Washington-Seattle
Harvard REU PI: Prof. Cynthia Friend
Mentors: Dr. Richard Schalek of CNS, Dr. Byoung Koun Min

For more information regarding the NNIN REU Program, please click here.

Also, for information regarding other REU programs at Harvard (MRSEC, NSEC and others), please see the following URL:
http://www.eduprograms.deas.harvard.edu/reu.htm