MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices
Nanotechnology is a term that has captured the public imagination and is central to our everyday lives. It is at the heart of the transistor found in every computer and mobile phone, is key to unlocking renewable energy supplies and promises new lighter materials with added strength.
The aim of this MSc programme is to show how nanotechnology can be used for our benefit with real world applications. This programme is designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills and practical experience to understand how nanotechnology can change our lives.
Taught by internationally recognised experts within the University’s Advanced Technology Institute (ATI), the programme has as its broad theme the practical implementation of nanotechnology. The programme covers the fundamental science behind nanotechnology and moves on to discuss its implementation using nanomaterials, the advanced tools of nanotechnology which allow us to see at the nanoscale, before discussing future trends and applications.
You will gain specialised, practical skills through an individual research project, within our research groups, using state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. Completion of the programme will provide you with unique skills to further your career in this rapidly emerging field.
Entry standards
A good honours degree in electronic engineering or physics. Material science graduates with a background in advanced materials or those with strong industrial experience may also be admitted.
English language requirements
Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS 6.5 or above, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (or equivalent).
Please note that the University of Surrey offers English language programmes and is also an IELTS Test Centre.
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices - structure and modules
Module Titles
Compulsory modules
- Introduction to Nanotechnology
- Molecular Electronics
- Advanced Experimental Methods
- Nanoelectronics and Devices
- Nanophotonics
- Frontiers of Nanotechnology
Optional modules include:
- Silicon Device Technology
- RF and Microwave Fundamentals
- RF Systems and Circuit Design
- Optoelectronics
- Microwave Engineering
MSc Project (compulsory)
A dissertation project is carried out during the final semester using the facilities within ATI
Compulsory Modules
Introduction to Nanotechnology
This module introduces the fundamentals of nanotechnology and the role of nanotechnology in society. The important nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes, graphene and nanometal-based catalysts, are studied with examples from the scientific literature or commercially available products. Quantum effects associated with low dimensional structures and the use of scanning tunnelling microscopy for atomic imaging and atomic and molecular manipulation are also studied. The state of the art in high resolution transmission electron microscopy, focused ion beam (FIB) methods and lithography are also discussed.
Molecular Electronics
Modern electronics has embraced using molecules and polymers in consumer electronics and the UK is particularly internationally known for its excellence in the development of molecular electronics. This module is designed to discuss the fundamental structural, electronic and chemical properties of molecules and how they can be used for devices such as light-emitting diodes and flexible and transparent electronics. In addition, the issues surrounding long-term operation and device stability and transport, as well as their applications, will be discussed. The module will also examine liquid crystals and self-assembly, RF ID tags and electronic paper (e-paper).
Advanced Experimental Methods
This module discusses the tools of nanotechnology including atomic force microscopy and related techniques, electrical and optical characterisation,and modern ion beam implantation methods and will allow the student to learn about good clean-room practice and safe chemical working. The uses and limitations of different experimental techniques will also be discussed. This module will provide the analytical skills required to carry out an experimental-based research project.
Nanoelectronics and Devices
In this module the fundamentals of nanoelectronics from the viewpoint of what controls the current in a nanoscale device are explored. Starting off with bulk materials, we explore both 2D and 1D materials, such as graphene and carbon nanotubes and other nanowires, and devices including the calculation of density states in low dimensions and the Landaurer formalism for electron transport. Advanced devices include resonant tunnelling devices, Coulomb blockade devices, high-mobility transistors and sensors. Spintronic materials and devices for memory applications are also discussed.
Nanophotonics
The characteristics of photonic materials and devices that operate at the nanometre level are examined. Electronic and photon confinement effects, as well as excitons and polaritons, the structure and properties of photonic band gap and metamaterials are all discussed. Light emission from lasers, quantum wells, as well as the structure of the quantum cascade laser, are also studied.
Frontiers of Nanotechnology
This module will contain lectures on a variety of topics at the forefront of nanotechnology. Topics include MEMS and NEMS devices and processing, as well as applications in sensors and microsystems technology. energy technology is particularly important at the moment and topics include the structure and operation of the different generations of solar cells, fuel cells and energy storage using batteries and supercapacitors. Finally, some of the most exciting aspects of modelling on the nanoscale, including quantum computers, are introduced.
Optional Modules
Optional modules for Semester 1 include:
• Silicon Device Technology
• RF and Microwave Fundamentals
• RF Systems and Circuit Design
Optional modules for Semester 2 include:
• Optoelectronics
• Microwave Engineering
Project (compulsory)
A dissertation project is carried out during the final semester using the facilities within the ATI.
Subject information
Nanotechnology at Surrey
The University of Surrey is one of the leading institutions developing nanotechnology and the next generation of materials and nanoelectronic devices. The Department of Electronic Engineering has been recognised as one of the leading electronics departments in the UK in both of the last two national Research Assessment Exercises. Our facilities are of the highest order and, as participants on the programme, you will be able to make full use of them.
Programme Structure
For the award of an MSc degree a total of 180 academic credits is required. Over the course of two semesters, you will undertake study in a total of eight modules, each worth 15 credits. In the final semester, a 60-credit individual research project will be undertaken using the facilities within ATI. Recent projects have included the study of graphene, carbon nanotube composites, laser diode characterisation and liquid crystals.
The final semester project will be undertaken in our laboratories such as the clean-room, the nanoelectronics laboratory or the optical characterisation suite. This provides an opportunity to demonstrate the application of nanotechnology, test critical assumptions, develop a new system or device, or model and predict effects at the nanoscale.
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices - entry standards
Entry standards
A good honours degree in electronic engineering or physics. Material science graduates with a background in advanced materials or those with strong industrial experience may also be admitted.
English language requirements
Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS 6.5 or above, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (or equivalent).
Please note that the University of Surrey offers English language programmes and is also an IELTS Test Centre.
Start date
September
Programme director
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices - fees and funding
Fees
Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices (full time):
UK/EU - £6,400
Overseas - £15,015
Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices (part time per 15 credits):
UK/EU - £535
Overseas - £1,250
Funding
Scholarships are available from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and charitable trusts. There are also Commonwealth scholarships available but these are very competitive and early application is vital.
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices - professional context
Professional recognition
Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology. Professional membership of the Institute of Nanotechnology (MIoN).
Accreditation
Professional Recognition
Accreditation comes from the Institution of Engineering and Technology. Participants will also be eligible for professional membership of the Institute of Nanotechnology which will enable the use of the letters MloN after your name. Not only will this enhance professional standing, it may be useful for further continuing professional development and can be used in the application process for Chartered Engineer or Chartered Scientist status.
Careers
The industrial map of the nanotechnology Knowledge Transfer Network shows that there are hundreds of companies which are active in the areas of functional nanotechnology, devices and machines, nanofabrication, nanomanufacturing and nanomaterials – all key areas that are covered by our MSc degree.
The UK is particularly noted for the strong instrument and characterisation sector among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Taking this degree will immediately open up access to jobs in these companies, which need highly skilled staff with a nanotechnology technical background. An MSc Electronic Engineering will complement your first degree, whether it is in electronics, physics or materials.
We have extensive and longstanding collaborations with Philips, BAE Systems, Intel, Omicron, FEI (especially in relation to focused ion beam systems), Hitachi, QinetiQ, the Carbon Trust, CEVP and Merck.
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices - teaching
Teaching
Taught Masters programmes in the Department of Electronic Engineering utilise our research-active staff in conjunction with state-of-the-art facilities. We provide a range of learning experiences – lectures, tutorials, directed study, practical laboratories and project work – that prepare graduates for their professional life.
We are particularly keen to develop in all our students a broad range of generic and transferrable skills, such as programming and presentation skills to complement the core technical or scientific competencies of your chosen subject area.
Our modular programme format, coupled with the increasing use of innovative teaching and learning strategies such as e-learning and industrially focused short courses, provides a flexible study environment whilst maintaining academic rigour and quality
Staff perspective
Dr David Carey
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices - learning
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices - graduate profile
Graduate Profile: Thomas Connolly
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices
I wanted to study nanotechnology as it is a new and exciting area of science in which there is still a lot to learn and discover. The electronics industry is constantly minimising the dimensions of products and by studying this subject I believed I could better ready myself for industry.
When deciding on universities, I went for reputation and variety of subjects. Surrey had a 5* rating for research in the UK’s Research Assessment Exercise and its choice of subjects is very well rounded. This inevitably led to it being my number one choice.
The best part of the course for me was the ability to choose particular modules I am interested in. As I am from an engineering background, I was able to carefully choose modules I would enjoy such as Radio Frequency Engineering and Microwave Engineering Principles. The ability to choose is really a highly beneficial part of the Surrey degree system.
I believe nanotechnology will be a key technology for the future of electronics, along with many other science disciplines from biology to chemistry. It is this collaboration of the sciences which really intrigued me and led to my enrolment on this course.
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices - more
Advanced Technology Institute
The Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) is a £10m investment in advanced research and is the flagship institute of the University of Surrey in the area of nanotechnology. Opened in 2002, it brings together under one roof the major research activities of the University from the Department of Electronic Engineering and the Department of Physics in the area of nanotechnology and electronic devices. The 2008 Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) has reconfirmed Surrey’s preeminent position as amongst the very best research-led electronic engineering departments in the UK.
ATI is a multidisciplinary research centre comprising 22 members of academic staff from the Electronic Engineering and Physics Departments. ATI houses over 140 researchers, approximately half of whom are PhD students. Our researchers come from a wide range of backgrounds – electronic engineers, physicists, material scientists, biologists and chemists – as well as from around the world, both of which reflects the strong multidisciplinary nature of modern-day research in nanoscience and technology.
ATI’s strategy is based on carrying out selective and focused programmes of research in the areas of nanomaterials and nanoelectronics, with a strong focus on the growth, structure and characterisation of materials for devices and sustainable energy.
Our research into nanophotonic materials and devices concentrates on silicon and III-V materials, including sensors, laser and solid state lighting, and spintronics. Our Ion Beam Centre is the UK’s national facility for ion implantation and ion beam analysis, and works with 22 industrial partners and a similar number of universities. Our research into theory and advanced computation provides the insight for computational design applied to relevant applications.
The backbone of ATI is strong collaboration between the different groups on cross-cutting themes in science and technology on the nanoscale, with experiments backed up by advanced simulation.
Taking Nanotechnology Further
Within ATI, we have created a strong entrepreneurial culture supporting innovation and enterprise based on a sound scientific foundation. Backed by advanced facilities and computational power, ATI strives to work with industry and governmental organisations on some of the most technologically challenging problems of today.
The research groups making up ATI have a proud history of innovation, recognised in 2002 by the award of a Queen’s Anniversary Prize for preeminence in optoelectronics and ion implantation. Staff at ATI have a successful track record of developing basic research into practical application, the high point of which is the development of the strained layer quantum well laser found in every CD and DVD player, which was pioneered at Surrey.
Several new spin-out companies have been established which build upon fundamental research. Surrey NanoSystems’ NanoGrowth Catalyst™ platform provides for the low temperature, large-area, scalable growth of carbon nanotubes. The company won the Start-up and University Collaboration category at the 2007 Engineer Technology and Innovation Awards.
Si-Light Technologies Ltd is commercialising patented nanotechnology based on ‘dislocation engineering’, which enables light emission and optical activity in silicon.
Quantum Filament Technologies Ltd was spun out in 2005 from a collaboration between ATI and Dundee University with the aim of commercialising a large-area and scalable platform technology for field emission displays.
MSc Nanotechnology and Nanoelectronic Devices - apply
You can apply for this programme online using the link(s) below. We recommend making an application as soon as you can, even if you do not have all the necessary supporting information ready at that time.
As part of the application process, you will be asked to enter a username and password. If you've used our application system before, please enter your details or click the forgotten password link.
If you are a new user, you will need to create a username and password by clicking the New User button.
Start date
September
Programme length
12 months full-time
Programme director
For general enquiries
T: 0800 980 3200 or
+44 (0)1483 681681
E: pg-enquiries@surrey.ac.uk
For admissions enquiries
T: +44 (0)1483 686069
E: feps-pg@surrey.ac.uk