TU-DX: Towards Applications of 2D Materials

Layered materials such as graphite consist of stacked atomic layers that are only weakly bound together. Isolating a single such layer produces a two-dimensional (2D) solid featuring exceptional properties. Research into these materials has exploded since the first realization of graphene, a single layer of graphite, in 2004. Reduction to one atomic layer results in a plethora of novel phenomena that do not exist in conventional three-dimensional materials. Potential applications abound, 2D materials are expected to revolutionize a wide range of technologies in the coming years. In the doctoral college TU-DX, we will tailor the properties of 2D materials via defect engineering to address three application goals where 2D materials excel: solar energy conversion, 2D nanoelectronics, and biosensors. Since 2D systems lie at the crossroads of solid state physics, molecular chemistry, and materials science, future leadership in nanotechnology requires expertise that transcends the traditional boundaries between disciplines. In TU-DX, we establish a new, research-driven PhD student education program on 2D materials to ensure our students acquire the necessary, diverse skillset. The program encompasses the four key areas of nanotechnology: synthesis, characterization, simulation, and application. The comprehensive TU-DX PhD program builds on the success of our TU Wien doctoral college TU-D. A joint supervision model teams students up with leading experts with complementary expertise working on PhD projects designed to foster collaborative research. A thesis advisory committee consisting of experts from each of the four areas guides each project, ensuring its position at the forefront of the latest developments in the field. The comprehensive training program encompasses a lecture series on the fundamentals in the four key areas, a seminar series, international secondments, project works, an annual retreat, and soft skills training. TU Wien is the natural host of TU-DX as 2D systems perfectly align with strategic research areas at our university. Our academic staff includes leading experts and rising stars from three faculties (Physics, Chemistry and Electrical Engineering) with complementary skills. With the present proposal, we will establish TU Wien as the leading center for research on 2D materials in Austria. In a nutshell, TU-DX provides the PhD students with a unique PhD experience at the forefront of research on low-dimensional materials, pushing the limits of current methods. We will educate well-rounded researchers with the skillset in this rapidly growing field to embark on successful careers in academia or industry.