Growth and characterization of interfaces: Mechanisms for student participation

CHED 158

John C. Tully, john.tully@yale.edu1, Charles Ahn2, Eric I. Altman, eric.altman@yale.edu3, Christine Broadbridge4, Victor E. Henrich, victor.henrich@yale.edu2, Myrtle-Rose Padmore2, Yaron Segal2, and Fred Walker2. (1) Department of Chemistry, Yale University, 225 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8107, (2) Department of Applied Physics, Yale University, (3) Department of Chemical Engineering, Yale University, PO Box 208286, New Haven, CT 06520, (4) Department of Physics, Southern Connecticut State University
The Yale University Center for Research on Interface Structures and Phenomena (CRISP) is one of the National Science Foundation MRSEC centers. A main focus of CRISP research is complex oxide interfaces. Complex oxides exhibit a wealth of electronic, magnetic and chemical behaviors. Moreover, the surfaces and interfaces of complex oxides can have properties that differ substantially from those of the corresponding bulk materials. CRISP is involved in the preparation of high quality and novel oxide interfaces, the characterization of the structure and properties of these interfaces, and the exploration of their possible technological applications. In addition, CRISP employs this research program in a concerted way to educate students at all levels. The CRISP educational effort is built upon two centerpieces. First, CRISP's partnership between Yale and nearby Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) provides effective links to local teachers and students. Second, CRISP has constructed a robust molecular beam epitaxy apparatus specifically designed for safe and productive use by undergraduates. Students can grow their own samples and then characterize them with facilities at both Yale and SCSU, providing a complete research experience.