Electronic and Photonic Materials
In 1994 the Department of Materials Science and Engineering established
an undergraduate specialization option in Electronic and Photonic
Materials (EPM). Special program facilities include an undergraduate
laboratory fully equipped with state-of-the-art electrical and
optical characterization equipment for hands-on experience; access
to clean room microfabrication and testing facilities for integrated
circuits; opportunities to get involved with research projects
on diamond, silicon carbide, gallium nitride, optical waveguides,
silicides, ferroelectrics, and superconductors. |
Suggested Curriculum for EPM
Faculty in EPM
Minor in EPM
Undergraduate Handbook |
Introduction to Electronic and Photonic Materials
Electronic and photonic materials span a full range of chemical
and structural compositions. They can be organic or inorganic,
crystalline or amorphous, and include metals, ceramics, glasses,
and plastics. Many electronic and photonic materials are assembled
atom-by-atom. Thin films of the materials are often stacked
one on top of another to obtain specialized properties for
specific applications.
Electronic and photonic materials characterize the Information
Age. They are used in computers, telecommunication systems,
copiers, fax machines, compact disc players, and video cameras.
Just think of all the stuff you own that uses some type of "chip" to
enhance its performance.
Training in this specialty of materials science and engineering
provides an in-depth knowledge of synthesis, processing, and
characterization techniques used to improve the energy efficiency,
performance, and utility of the materials while reducing their
manufacturing costs. Scientists and engineers in this field
are the behind-the-scenes inventors of materials and composites
that enable continued advances in electrical and optical performance.
Graduates of the electronic and photonic materials specialization
will be prepared to work in the field with a varierty of materials.
These might include amorphous semiconductors for solar cells,
transistors for flat panel active matrix displays; electro
optic films for optically routing phone and video signals;
liquid crystals for compact and low power displays; magneto-optic
films for recordable compact discs; single crystals for the
time base of clocks and watches, polarizers, and frequency
doublers; semiconductors for all types of electronic and computer-related
uses; or superconductors for devices and applications that
we only now dream about. |
Undergraduate Advisor to Students in EPM Option:
Suzanne
Mohney
Professor of Materials Science and Engineering
202A Steidle Building
814-863-0744
mohney@matse.psu.edu |
Undergraduate Electronic and Photonic Materials
Option
The undergraduate specialization option in Electronic
and Photonic Materials was developed to serve students who are
interested in the science and engineering principles of the
materials used in the myriad of electronic and photonic-related
industries that have sprung up over the past two decades. Computers,
cell phones, fax machines and copiers, compact disc players,
and automobiles all utilize these materials in numerous ways.
The development of better products is heavily reliant on the
materials that are used to make them. Students in this option
will be prepared to step into R&D, sales, or management
positions in companies that produce these products or their
components. The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation
Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). |
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