Experimental investigation of exciton and charge carrier dynamics in organic semiconductors
Understanding materials degradation mechanism and protection
Post modification of organic semiconductor films to control their electric and optical properties via Plasma treatments, Solvent vapor annealing, Low work function metal implantation
Crystallinity control of organic semiconductor films and aggregates.
Theoretical and computational data analysis on opto-electronic properties of organic semiconductors (no experiment is required)
An organic semiconductor OLED device fabricated by a student at TAMU-Commerce
Fabrication and characterization of organic photovoltaic (OPV) materials based solar cells at ETAMU
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1. Understanding interfacial exciton dynamics by electro-optical measurement
Laser-induced Photoluminescence Spectroscopy Setup
Evolution of electroluminescence (EL) spectra of an MEHPPV OLED device during operation and photoluminescence (PL) spectra of an MEHPPV thin film during photodegradation.
2. Investigating material properties of biopolymers for optoelectronic device application
3. Characterizing optical properties of organic semiconductor thin films by ellipsometry
NASA-sponsored research projects
Project Title: Investigating protective transparent flexible films for organic semiconductor optoelectronic devices in the Martian atmospheric environment
Organic semiconductor devices offer advantages such as lightweight, flexible, and low-power operation for human exploration on Mars, including applications like wearable sensors, radiation detectors, and flexible solar panels. However, the harsh Martian environment, characterized by extreme UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, and a CO2-rich atmosphere, causes material degradation.
This project will investigate the charge carrier dynamics and degradation mechanisms of organic semiconductors under simulated Martian conditions, with a particular focus on low pressure CO2-rich environments. By identifying specific failure modes, we aim to improve material stability. The next phase will involve developing protective coatings or encapsulation layers to enhance device durability. Understanding and mitigating degradation is essential for deploying reliable organic electronic devices during long-term Mars missions.
Research experience in this project will provide students with hands-on training in fundamental device and materials fabrication, and also data analysis techniques, preparing them for careers in both research and high-tech manufacturing industries such as semiconductor devices, solar cells, and display applications.
Undergraduate students research assistant positions are available (from Fall 2025 - continues):
Regular semesters: $14/hour
Summer: Full support (100%: $6,400 for 10 weeks), and part-time appointments (50%: $3,200 for 10 weeks)
Graduate students Summer Research Assistant (RA) positions are available (Summer only). Teaching Assistant (TA) positions are available for regular semesters.
M.S. in Physics (No GRE is required with undergraduate GPA 3.0 or above)
: A bridge program toward top Ph.D. schools.
: Lab skills and data analysis training for industry.
: Most graduate students are supported as teaching assistants (TAs) by the department in Fall and Spring semesters.
: Summer Research Assistant positions can be available. Contact Dr. Park for more information.
Research in experimental Organic Semiconductor Physics
Research in theoretical and computational data analysis, and modeling physical processes with Python programming - no experiment is required.
Research experience for undergraduate students in both experiments and theoretical modeling.
: Support for nationwide NSF REU programs. The programs usually come with full summer support (stipend, travel, etc.) for 10 weeks.
- https://www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/reu_search.jsp
: Undergraduate Research Assistant positions may be available for Fall, Spring, and Summer. Contact Dr. Park for more information