A good understanding of the fundamental properties of semiconductor materials and devices is necessary for the professional engineer or scientist to follow the rapid changes in the fields of microelectronics and photonics. This course overviews the basic operation of electronic and optoelectronic devices and moves on to describe the most recent advances in the field. Course topics include: revision of semiconductor physics, including carrier generation, recombination and transport processes and of homo, hetero and Schottky junctions and diodes. Optoeletronic devices, including LED, semiconductor lasers, photodetectors and solar cells. Bipolar transistors, including advanced heterojunction devices. Field effect devices.


For students with appropriate background, the overview of basic topics will be fast, and the course will focus on advanced devices and the latest developments in the field. In depth study of a particular device currently investigated within one of the main research groups at the ANU will provide personalised training in electronic device design and modelling, including aspects related to its ideal and practical performance, fabrication and cost.

Admission to the ME degree and permission of the course coordinator

This elective will be offered subject to sufficient enrolment and availability of teaching staff.