Colloidal Quantum Dots for Visible-Light Communications (QVLC)

The evolution of consumer electronics, mobile communications and advanced computing technologies is leading to an exponential increase in end-user data requirements. This rapid growth in data traffic brings a great challenge to fulfil the capacity demands for the current optical communication industry. Visible-light Communication (VLC) systems utilise visible light for data communications that occupy the spectrum from 380 nm to 750 nm, which is considered as a promising technology for future data communication. Solution-processed quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) represent a hallmark breakthrough in LEDs, as can be seen from the newly launched QD HDTVs. Given the enormous potential of QLEDs, it would be reasonable to presume that there is considerable potential for QLEDs as a light source for VLC. Remarkably, QLEDs combine the material properties of monolithic grown compound semiconductor LEDs (indium gallium nitride-InGaN, micro-LEDs-muLEDs for example), as well as unrivalled broad spectral tunability, mechanical foldability and low-cost processability, making them a promising candidate for such applications. The low-cost processability is a key differentiator from conventional compound semiconductor LEDs which are difficult and expensive to deploy in large-area highly integrated data communication systems. However, the limited optical bandwidth and toxic composition (Cd, Pb) have been recognised as the bottleneck for QLEDs VLC applications.

We would like to work with an enthusiastic PhD student to develop a deep understanding of the factors which are crucial for growing non-toxic QDs (such as indium gallium phosphide (InGaP), copper indium sulphide (CuInS2)) as well as QDs ensemble films for high-speed QLED optical data communications. At the end of their PhD, they should be able to produce high-quality QDs and QLEDs as well as contribute solutions to QLED optical communication challenges. Development of new materials growth method and LED device structural innovations to study these effects will be encouraged as part of the student's research and is an area for high-impact publication. This is not only a transdisciplinary project, but it also intends to foster a broader understanding of quantum materials and device manufacturing, which is fit for current challenges in semiconducting technologies, from portable electronics to quantum computers based on quantum materials.

The student will gain fundamental knowledge in nanocrystal growth, semiconductor physics and electronic engineering experience, as well as practical experiences in solution-processed nanocrystal growth, using cleanroom facilities, materials simulations and electron microscopies. Equipped with these skills, the student will be highly competitive and sought after both in industry and academia.