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ECE SEMINAR: The Evolution of Sensing using Hybrid Nanomaterials

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Tuesday, December 08, 2020
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Shayla Sawyer. Associate Professor in the Electrical, Computer, and Systems Engineering Department at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Prof. Sawyer's research group contributes to bridging the gap between novel hybrid materials and their use in new sensor systems that can shift paradigms of how, where, and when hazards (biological, environmental, chemical, or nuclear) can be detected. Specifically, the Nano/Bio research group investigates optical and electrical properties of metal oxide semiconductor nanomaterials, perovskites, two-dimensional high mobility materials, and organic materials to form hybrid material devices. In addition, her recent explorations were recently featured in Scientific American in which 2-D nanomaterials are fabricated at room temperature using bacteria. This bio-fabrication is a versatile, low-energy alternative to other fabrication methods with applications in sensing, bioremediation, and energy harvesting. These hybrid devices are designed to exploit synergistic relationships to enhance optical and electrical characteristics in new ways.

As unique properties of material combinations are discovered, their effects create unprecedented responses to light or other surrounding media. Integration of these materials in optical and electronic devices contributes to converting these responses to electrical signals, a necessary development for innovation in an increasingly interconnected digital world.

Contact: Matthew Novik