Department of Nanoscale Science & Engineering Abstracts

Presenter(s): Ronak Safari

Showcase Advisor: Shadi Shahedipour-Sandvik

Abstract: Aluminum gallium nitride (AlₓGa1−xN) has emerged as a promising ultra-wide bandgap (UWBG) material with its direct and tunable bandgap from ~3.4 eV to ~6.1 eV1. However, efficient p-type doping remains a major challenge. As in GaN, Mg doping is limited by high activation energy, and in AlₓGa1−xN this limitation becomes more severe with increasing Al content, rising from ~ 160 meV in GaN to ~ 510 meV in AlN2. As a result, achieving highly conductive p-type Al-rich AlₓGa1−xN remains difficult. Beryllium (Be) is a promising alternative because of its potentially shallower acceptor level in AlN (~0.33 eV)2 and smaller atomic size, which may reduce dopant-induced strain. In our previous work3, we studied the effects of V/III ratio and pressure on Be incorporation in MOCVD-grown AlGaN:Be. Here, we further explore growth conditions and techniques to improve Be incorporation using SIMS, AFM, and PL to evaluate incorporation, surface morphology, and possible incorporation mechanisms.

Presenter(s): Nicholas Fusco

Showcase Advisor: Harry Efstathiadis

Abstract: This project was designed to study how cycling rate influences capacity fade in commercial NMC811/graphite Li-ion consumer cells. Cells were galvanostatically cycled for 100 cycles at 0.3C, 1C, 2C, and 3C rates, with a baseline reference cell used for comparison. Electrochemical data show discharge capacity decreased with increasing C-rate, from ~200 mAh at 0.3C to 195 mAh at 1C, 115 mAh at 2C, and 65 mAh at 3C after 100 cycles. Nyquist analysis shows that after cycling at 0.3C and 1C, impedance increased to ~225 mΩ and ~210 mΩ, respectively. At 2C, a minor increase in impedance was observed after 100 cycles, while the 3C condition exhibited a different behavior, with impedance decreasing to ~130 mΩ after cycling. The cells were disassembled in an argon-filled glovebox, and the electrodes were rinsed with DMC prior to characterization by XRD, SEM/EDS, XPS, and NRA.

Presenter(s): Omar Khurshid

Showcase Advisor: Spyros Gallis

Abstract: The development of quantum photonic technologies requires materials whose optical emission properties can be efficiently coupled into photonic structures. Specifically, erbium-doped materials are attractive for photonic integrated circuits due to their characteristic optical transition near 1532 nm in the telecom C-band. Integration of such materials into nanophotonic devices requires understanding and control of their emission directionality, polarization, and coupling to photonic modes.

In this work, we develop and implement an angle-resolved photoluminescence (ARPL) microscopy system designed to measure the angular emission characteristics of erbium-implanted material systems relevant to integrated photonics, including silicon carbide and lithium niobate films and nanostructured architectures. The angular absorption of incident excitation and the far-field radiation patterns of implanted dipole emitters reveal how material geometry and nanostructuring influence emission anisotropy and light extraction efficiency. These parameters are critical for optimizing emitter–photonic-circuit coupling and for guiding the design of materials and nanostructures for integration into quantum devices.

Presenter(s): Mengyao Zheng

Showcase Advisor: Arun Chandrasekaran

Abstract: DNA tensegrity triangle is a nanostructure assembled with three different DNA strands that can assemble into 3D crystals and has applications in materials science and biology. For biological applications, the nanostructure can be chemically modified. Replacing the phosphodiester backbone with phosphorothioate backbone improves stability against nucleases. However, chemical modifications may impact the nanostructure assembly. To determine the optimum number and distribution of the phosphorothioate modifications in the DNA triangle, we constructed a library of the nanostructure using the DNA strands containing modifications throughout the strand, in the interior regions, at the terminal regions of the strands. Out of the 36 possible combinations, only 9 assembled successfully. The triangle with end-modified strand 1 showed the highest stability against Dnase I with a half-life. This study revealed how phosphorothioate modifications affect assembly yield and biostability of nanostructure assembly provided an optimum design with high biostability.

Presenter(s): Ayat Hag-Elsafi

Showcase Advisor: Yubing Xie

Abstract: Fibrosis in salivary glands disrupts tissue architecture and limits saliva secretion by replacing functional acinar cells with dense extracellular matrix. We previously demonstrated that mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) delivered on elastin–alginate cryoelectrospun scaffolds (CES) exhibit antifibrotic potential in vitro but show limited efficacy in vivo, highlighting the need to improve cell phenotype and stability. Here, we evaluate whether modifying CES with hyaluronic acid (CES‑HA) enhances stromal cell behavior relevant to antifibrotic function. CES and CES‑HA scaffolds were fabricated by cryoelectrospinning and seeded with NIH 3T3 fibroblasts, then cultured for 1–3 days under rotary or static conditions to assess viability, proliferation, and fibrotic marker expression. Both scaffolds supported improved proliferation in rotary culture with low α‑SMA expression, and CES‑HA further promoted a stromal‑like phenotype. These findings identify scaffold modifications and culture conditions that better support stromal cell survival and phenotype maintenance for future salivary gland regeneration strategies.

Presenter(s): Aishaanya Kaushik

Showcase Advisor: Robert Brainard

Abstract: This poster presents advancements in the Bio Roll-Up (BRU) technique used to design and fabricate 3D biocompatible scaffolds for cell growth. These scaffolds self-assemble into tubular structures that enable the study of cell differentiation with potential applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. To support cell attachment and proliferation, a thermally responsive polymer (TRP) was used. The TRP dissolves when the temperature decreases, allowing precise control over the timing of scaffold self-assembly. A thin layer of hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) was incorporated to promote adhesion between the (TRL) and the biolayers (BL). Previously, the BRU scaffold consisted of three primary layers, TRL, BL1, and BL2, patterned into 1 × 1.5 mm rectangles. This work introduces several improvements, including updated TRP synthesis, refined biopolymer synthesis, and new 3D scaffold fabrication methods. Additionally, HMDS was shown to enhance scaffold development in methanol after fabrication and strengthen interlayer adhesion, enabling more reliable and controlled self-assembly.

Presenter(s): Soo Young Moon

Showcase Advisor: Woongje Sung

Abstract: Wide-bandgap 4H-SiC power devices are attractive for high-efficiency power conversion, but conventional SiC MOSFETs are limited by the parasitic PN body diode. During third-quadrant conduction, bipolar current can induce basal plane dislocation expansion into stacking faults, causing irreversible forward-voltage degradation and poor long-term reliability. This bipolar behavior also increases reverse recovery charge and switching loss.

A monolithically integrated Junction Barrier Schottky diode, referred to as the JBSFET, overcomes these issues by enabling unipolar third-quadrant conduction. A simplified process using a single metal and single thermal treatment forms both Ohmic and Schottky contacts without extra masking steps. Advanced layouts and a deep P-well structure preserve high cell density, suppress leakage, and maintain breakdown capability. This approach eliminates stacking-fault-related degradation, reduces switching losses, and supports high-voltage SiC power applications.

Presenter(s): Samuel Powell

Showcase Advisor: Scott Tenenbaum

Abstract: Extreme ultraviolet light lithography is one of the next advancements to be made in the semiconductor industry, and new tools are needed to keep up with this advancement.

In this project, the concentration of coumarin 6, photo-acid generator, environmentally stable chemically amplified photoresist, dissolved in propylene glycol methyl ether acetate, must be balanced such that it is effective at the number of acids generated when exposed to extreme ultraviolet light.

This is accomplished by creating and testing different concentrations of coumarin 6, photo-acid generator, environmentally stable chemically amplified photoresist, dissolved in propylene glycol methyl ether acetate, measuring the transmission percent of the photoresist on quartz wafers with different wavelengths in a ultraviolet-visible light spectrometer, with samples that have been exposed to ultraviolet light in a extreme ultraviolet resist outgassing and exposure tool and unexposed samples.

Presenter(s): Adam Koplas

Showcase Advisor: Yubing Xie

Abstract: Oftentimes when working with cell culture, biologists run into the issue of substrate properties, such as surface topography and substrate rigidity impacting cell growth and function. For certain mammalian cell culture, such as kidney epithelial cells, culturing on a porous substrate (e.g., cell culture insert, Transwell, filter membrane) is usually required to maintain their polarity. However, these commercially available porous cell culture inserts are not compatible with advanced cell imaging techniques. Although a glass coverslip allows best live cell imaging conditions to occur, it is missing perforated structure. SU-8 is a photopatternable, lithography compatible, negative photoresist that is compatible with cell culture and imaging. By microfabricating a finder-patterned SU-8 mesh, we can create a porous surface for substituting Transwell/insert/filter membrane for epithelial cell culture while tracking cell location using the indexing pattern. We have demonstrated the feasibility of using finder-patterned SU-8 mesh for correlated light and electron microscopy (CLEM) applications.

Presenter(s): Joseph Cordone

Showcase Advisor: Ji Ung Lee

Abstract: This poster discusses the derivation of a proposal by Liang Fu and Charles Kane for a hybrid topological superconducting system. Topological insulator (TI) is deposited onto standard s-wave superconducting, and the proximity allows Cooper pairs to tunnel into the TI surface. Under certain conditions this creates an effective 2D topological superconducting surface at the interface, capable of hosting Majorana zero modes (MZM's). The system can also be tuned experimentally through choice of superconductor and electrical gating of the TI. Because MZM's are central to proposals for topological quantum computing, this hybrid system may be a useful route to its experimental realization.

Presenter(s): Ava Althoff

Showcase Advisor: Nathaniel Cady

Abstract: In humans, the bile duct connects the liver, gallbladder, and small intestine, enabling bile flow. Inflammation or obstruction often requires a biliary stent to maintain duct shape and restore flow. However, bacterial attachment (biofouling) and biofilm formation inside stents increase infection risk, reduce bile flow, and frequently require stent replacement. This study developed and tested an experimental flow cell system using poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coupons, a silicone-based material commonly used in commercial stents. PDMS surfaces were patterned with micro-scale structures previously shown to influence bacterial attachment and biofilm formation. Attachment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus mutans was evaluated to determine whether micro-scale topography reduces bacterial colonization. Additional chemically treated PDMS samples from a commercial manufacturer were also tested. Results indicate that surface topography, structure dimensions, spacing, and chemical treatments directly affect bacterial attachment. Ongoing studies examine how these factors influence subsequent biofilm formation.

Presenter(s): Anas Moumani

Showcase Advisor: Woongje Sung

Abstract: Contact resistance (Rc) at metal-semiconductor interfaces significantly impacts 4H-SiC power device performance, efficiency, and reliability. Traditional transfer length methods (TLM), including bar (b-TLM) and circular (c-TLM) architectures, often suffer from inaccuracies due to current crowding and 2D assumptions in 3D architectures. This project proposes a novel test structure mimicking realistic device geometries by integrating vertically aligned MOSFET components to minimize parasitic effects. Fabricated with varying inter-layer dielectric (ILD) lengths and a fixed ohmic opening, the structure allows precise extraction of specific contact resistance (Rct,sp). Using Synopsys TCAD, 2D and 3D models validated the design against traditional methods. Results showed the ILD-variation structure achieved consistent (Rct,sp) values matching ideal simulations, even with ±10% simulated noise, whereas traditional TLM exhibited large error margins. The proposed design eliminates planar assumptions, accommodates vertical current flow, and aligns with standard fabrication processes, enhancing measurement accuracy and optimizing 4H-SiC MOSFET development for next-generation power electronics.

Presenter(s): Samuel Price

Showcase Advisor: Scott Tenenbaum

Abstract: The switch to renewable energy is an important and necessary decision moving forward. For this I will be looking at one aspect of our current solar array operations and how to improve them, specifically the heat loss that comes from the wiring involved with large scale solar farms. The solution comes from this design of the pyroelectric nanogenerator, where it is multi layered structure consisting of titanium, zinc, and copper nanowires. This will be used to offset the heat loss that comes from the wiring. Different versions of the nano generator have seen great success in increasing the efficiency of the systems they were implemented in by 26.3%. With the utilization of unionized copper, the efficiency will hopefully grow to even double what other generators have produced. This design will increase the amount of power we can produce for the same area of current solar farms.

Presenter(s): Meghan Herbert

Showcase Advisor: Carl Ventrice

Abstract: Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are micron scale devices with moving parts.  In particular, Menlo Micro produces radio frequency MEMS-based switches that have higher performance than conventional semiconductor-based switches.  The MEMS switches use an electrostatically controlled cantilever that is made from a metal alloy.  The electrical contacts of the switch are coated with ruthenium because of its resistance to oxidation.  In addition, the most stable stoichiometry of ruthenium oxide is RuO2, which is an electrically conductive oxide. The MEMS devices are encapsulated in a proprietary gas mixture.  This gas mixture helps maintain the stability of the contacts.

Presenter(s): Vladimir Isakov

Showcase Advisor: Woongje Sung

Abstract: Drain Induced Barrier Lowering (DIBL) is a short-channel effect in MOSFETs where high drain voltage lowers the source barrier, reducing threshold voltage and increasing leakage current. As power devices scale and operate at higher voltages, understanding and mitigating DIBL is essential for maintaining reliability and performance. 
This work investigates DIBL in a 1.2 kV MOSFET by analyzing how device parameters affect threshold voltage (VTH), threshold voltage shift (ΔVTH), and specific on-resistance (Ron,sp). Simulation results show trade-offs between conduction performance and DIBL suppression. Increasing P-well implantation dose raises both VTH and Ron,sp while reducing DIBL. In contrast, increasing JFET width and JFET doping produces opposite trends. Additionally, longer channel lengths reduce short-channel and DIBL effects but increase Ron,sp.

These results highlight the trade-off between leakage control and conduction efficiency, emphasizing the need to carefully balance geometry and doping in high-voltage MOSFET design.

Presenter(s): Dinuth Chamila Yapa Bandara Yapa Mudiyanselage

Showcase Advisor: Woongje Sung

Abstract: 4H-SiC power MOSFETs are widely used switching devices in modern power electronics applications such as electric vehicles and renewable energy converters. Their wide bandgap and high critical electric field enable high-voltage operation with lower conduction and switching losses compared to conventional silicon devices. In these devices, the N+ source region plays an important role in determining contact resistance and overall device conduction efficiency. This work investigates the impact of N+ implantation depth on the performance of 1.2 kV MOSFETs with Linear and Hexagonal architectures. Increasing the N+ junction depth from 0.22 µm to 0.27 µm reduced the source contact resistivity by approximately 97%, resulting in about a 5% reduction in specific on-resistance. However, deeper implants increased lateral dopant spread, reducing the threshold voltage by roughly 13% and causing about a 9% reduction in breakdown voltage. Optimizing the JFET doping mitigated this degradation and restored the breakdown performance.

Presenter(s): Angelina Tahal, Emma Penny, Nikol Kazieiv, Harper Fleming

Showcase Advisor: Scott Tenenbaum

Abstract: Conventional facial tissue boxes often dispense tissues inconsistently, and the cardboard opening frequently tears unevenly during use. This project explores a redesign of the traditional tissue box to improve dispensing reliability while reducing packaging waste and long-term cost. The proposed design uses a reusable PETG container with a PTFE platform that slides along low-friction guide tracks. Compression springs beneath the platform apply upward pressure to a 200-tissue stack so that tissues remain accessible as the box empties. Basic engineering calculations were used to estimate the load from the tissues and platform and determine the spring force and travel required for the mechanism. The goal is to create a reusable dispenser that provides more consistent and reliable tissue access than a conventional cardboard box.

Presenter(s): Owen Castor

Showcase Advisor: Gregory Denbeaux

Abstract: Extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography is the leading patterning technology for advanced semiconductor manufacturing. Current photoresists, including polymer-based and emerging metal-based systems, are typically deposited using spin-coating, which relies on liquid processing. Recently, chemical vapor deposition has been explored for depositing metal-based EUV resists in vacuum, eliminating many challenges associated with wet processing. However, a dry deposition process for polymer-based EUV resists has not yet been demonstrated.

This work investigates vapor phase polymerization (VPP) as a potential pathway toward dry polymer resist formation. A custom vacuum chamber with controlled heating, cooling, and pressure regulation was designed and constructed to study this process. Silicon wafers were exposed to vaporized poly(phenyl methacrylate) (PMA) monomer and azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) initiator under reduced pressure to promote polymer film formation directly on the substrate surface. Initial experiments demonstrate monomer condensation and early-stage film formation, providing a foundation for developing dry-deposited polymer resists for future EUV lithography applications.

Presenter(s): Nicholas Winslow

Showcase Advisor: Spyros Gallis

Abstract: Erbium-doped materials are pivotal for the evolution of telecom quantum information and  
integrated photonics technologies. Primarily due to the characteristic optical transition at  
approximately 1532 nm, which aligns with the telecom C-band. Advancement of the next  
generation of efficient optoelectronic and quantum optical devices requires control over  
the polarization and directionality of erbium-related emission within nanophotonic  
structures. Angle-resolved photoluminescence (ARPL) microscopy provides critical  
insights into emission characteristics, which are for low-loss usage in optical fiber  
networks. An experimental ARPL system is utilized to detail the angular emission properties of erbium-implanted thin films and nanostructures. Using finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations to model the angle-dependent coupling of an electric field from an incident plane wave into thin films and nanostructures. These results are complemented with experimental photoluminescence measurements. The FDTD simulations are critical in interpreting experimental data and optimizing nanophotonic structures for enhanced directional emission in the telecom band.

Presenter(s): Dwiti Krushna Das

Showcase Advisor: Nathaniel Cady

Abstract: Rapid and sensitive detection of biological markers is critical for improving disease diagnosis. This research focuses on a biosensing platform called grating-coupled fluorescence plasmonics (GC-FP), which uses nanoscale gold gratings to amplify fluorescent signals up to 100-fold through surface plasmon-coupled emission (SPCE), enabling highly sensitive detection of low-abundance targets. GC-FP chips are fabricated using nanofabrication techniques at the Albany NanoTech Complex and patterned with biological probes such as antigens, antibodies, aptamers, or oligomers into spatially defined, multiplexed arrays. We have previously demonstrated GC-FP-based serological detection of Lyme disease and COVID-19 antibodies with excellent sensitivity and specificity. Current work extends the platform to nucleic acid detection via DNA hybridization down to 100 pM, and small-molecule sensing using aptamer-based switching mechanisms. Point-of-care formats utilizing GC-FP chips have also been developed, including dipstick and lateral flow assays. These developments aim to enable versatile, multiplexed diagnostics for both laboratory and point-of-care applications.

Presenter(s): Haoyuan Wu

Showcase Advisor: Yubing Xie

Abstract: Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness, is associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) due to impaired aqueous humor outflow through the trabecular meshwork (TM). Our group developed a 3D TM model using porous SU-8 substrates to study IOP regulation, but current in vitro outflow facility assessments remain limited by scalability. To improve the throughput of TM outflow facility assessment. A programmable multi-pump system was assembled along with pressure transducers to independently control and monitor flow rates across six perfusion chambers. Experiments were conducted over a 20-hour period for stable pressure readings at each sequential flow rate (2, 4, 8, 16 μL/min). Pressure-flow relationships were analyzed using linear regression to calculate outflow facility. We determined that perfusion in 6-chamber with and without porous substates show similar outflow facilities, validating the baseline measurement. These results demonstrate that the integrated 6-chamber perfusion system enables higher throughput outflow facility measurement.

Presenter(s): Hojung Lee

Showcase Advisor: Woongje Sung

Abstract: This study investigates the influence of active cell geometry on the static performance of 10-kV 4H-SiC Junction Barrier Schottky (JBS) diodes. Two structures with hexagonal and stripe active cells were fabricated and experimentally characterized. While forward conduction characteristics were similar, the hexagonal cell exhibited more than two orders of magnitude lower reverse leakage current than the stripe cell at 8 kV. To understand this difference, 3D TCAD simulations analyzed the electric field distribution. The results show that the stripe structure produces strong electric field concentrations at the P⁺ junction corners and the center of the Schottky contact, which can enhance electron injection under reverse bias. In contrast, the hexagonal layout provides a more uniform electric field distribution and improved shielding of the Schottky interface, effectively suppressing leakage current. These results highlight the importance of active cell geometry in improving the reverse blocking performance of ultra-high-voltage SiC JBS diodes.

Presenter(s): William Walsh, Jacob Blaylock, Jason Pasquini

Showcase Advisor: Scott Tenenbaum

Abstract: End users of commercial off-the-shelf facial tissue boxes frequently experience dispensing errors, as the next tissue fails to remain presented at the dispensing slot. Using rapid iteration enabled by additive manufacturing, our group designed and prototyped a passive spring-loaded platform that maintains the tissue stack near the dispensing interface throughout the life of the box. Multiple prototype geometries were fabricated and evaluated to compare dispensing reliability relative to a standard tissue box. The proposed device reduces the occurrence of failed or erroneous tissue dispenses while maintaining low manufacturing cost, minimal mechanical complexity, and ease of use.

Presenter(s): Mahad Naseer

Showcase Advisor: Harry Efstathiadis

Abstract: This project focuses on the investigation of the hole transport layer (HTL) in lead-free perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Devices were fabricated on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass with compact and mesoporous titanium dioxide layers. The lead-free perovskite layer was spin-coated in an inert atmosphere, followed by deposition of two HTL materials: (1) copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN) dissolved in dipropyl sulfide, and (2) the conventional small molecule 2,2',7,7'-tetrakis(N,N-di-p-methoxyphenylamine)-9,9'-spirobifluorene (Spiro-OMeTAD), doped with lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide and 4-tert-butylpyridine. Finally, silver electrodes were deposited by electron-beam evaporation.  

Fabricated samples confirmed successful integration of both HTLs, establishing a reliable fabrication protocol. Initial current-voltage measurements provided baseline performance for the two layers within the device.  

The comparison between the inorganic CuSCN and organic Spiro-OMeTAD provides a reference for evaluating cost, stability, and performance. Future work will use scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD), alongside I-V testing to further evaluate HTL structural properties regarding efficiency and stability.

Presenter(s): Jinam Modasiya

Showcase Advisor: Nathaniel Cady

Abstract: The conventional von Neumann architecture separates memory and logic units, creating a “von Neumann bottleneck” where data transfer limits speed and efficiency. Resistive random-access memory (ReRAM) is a promising alternative due to its fast read/write speeds, non-volatility, scalability, and compatibility with back-end-of-line fabrication. A ReRAM cell consists of a metal–insulator–metal stack where conductance is modified through electroforming and voltage biasing. Transition metal oxides are commonly used as switching materials because oxygen vacancies can be manipulated by an electric field to control conductance. To improve devices, a multilayer TaOx switching stack was developed using near-stoichiometric TaOx on TiN electrodes followed by a sub-stoichiometric TaOx layer of varying thickness. A tantalum OEL and iridium capping layer were added to control oxygen diffusion. Devices with a 5 nm sub-stoichiometric TaOx layer showed optimal switching characteristics and low electroforming voltages (~2.5 V). The fabrication process was successfully transferred to 300 mm wafer scale.

Presenter(s): Meshawn Stewart

Showcase Advisor: Woongje Sung

Abstract: This study investigates the temperature dependence of threshold voltage in commercially available transistors. Static electrical characterization tests were performed on three devices from eleven manufacturers over 25 degrees C –175 degrees C. Threshold voltage results were extracted using single gate sweeps, fixed drain-voltage current curves, and third-quadrant output. Experimental results show increasing temperature lowers threshold voltage and increases on resistance. Analyzed data determines which subsequent design approach minimizes instabilities.

Computer-aided design simulations alter parameters such as channel structure and doping concentration. Based on experimental and simulation insights, a design is proposed to balance performance trade-offs. This work contributes to a better understanding of high-temperature threshold voltage behavior to guide in optimizing future MOSFET designs.

Presenter(s): Nicholas Oktyabrsky

Showcase Advisor: Christophe Vallee

Abstract: As progress in nanoelectronics continues, feature size continues to shrink, and more complex, high aspect ratio (AR) structures are being used. One challenge presented is the conformal deposition of conductive materials in high AR structures, such as DRAM trench capacitors. Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) fits this well as it has high conformality and can be controlled at atomic scale. The downside is ALD has limited options for the type of conductive material it can deposit. Plasma Enhanced ALD (PEALD) can be a solution but has worse conformality due to reliance on plasma radicals. In this study, ions were used to assist radicals with ligand removal during the plasma step in PEALD by applying a negative DC bias voltage to the sample. This process can allow for more conformal deposition at higher ARs as it no longer relies solely on deep radical diffusion to remove ligands.

Presenter(s): Emma Clements

Showcase Advisor: Carlo Cafaro

Abstract: For the evolution of a two-level qubit system on the Bloch sphere, we examine two measures of quantum complexity: Krylov state complexity and a quantum information-geometric (IG) complexity measure. Krylov complexity is developed in geometric terms and contrasted with IG complexity, which can be characterized through the efficiency and curvature of quantum evolutions. This comparison shows that the two measures serve distinct roles in quantum dynamics. Krylov complexity characterizes the directional spread of an evolving state relative to its initial state, whereas IG complexity reflects the effective volume explored along the trajectory on the Bloch sphere. Distinguishing these measures explains their inequivalent behavior and highlights the complementary nature of state-based and IG complexity in quantum systems.

Presenter(s): Lucas Braccini

Showcase Advisor: Vincent LaBella

Abstract: Hafnium Zirconium Oxide (HfZrO2) thin films are utilized to scale non-volatile memory components. Lanthanum is implemented to improve the endurance of these films as well as impart ferroelectric / anti-ferroelectric properties. Most of these properties are dependent on La % which is primarily measured by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, a very slow metrology technique. This necessitates an investigation into other techniques that can measure La % more efficiently. This project will use a tabletop Semilab Spectroscopic Ellipsometry tool to correlate lanthanum percentages with changing optical properties such as index of refraction. While data was acquired the project was interrupted by an issue with the lamp causing errors with modeling the measurements. After troubleshooting, testing, and contact with the supplier we were able to successfully calibrate the tool improving the quality of the measurements. This project outlines a baseline for lanthanum percent modeling as well as troubleshooting guidelines for hardware malfunctions.

Presenter(s): Sreya Sunil

Showcase Advisor: Janet Paluh

Abstract: A challenge in moving computer-vision models on brain-pathologies from benchtop into clinical imaging is that nearly all rely on public datasets that are extensively processed. Despite a proliferation of published models for MRI,only a fraction translate into clinics and if so lose substantial accuracy. In our analysis of models for brain-tumor diagnostics,performance declines when evaluated on real-world clinical data. We aim to reduce reliance on large datasets and millions of trainable parameters through nimble architecture. Such a model can be ideal for hospital-to-hospital transferability,rare disease classifications and portability. To address this hypothesis,we developed SIENNA-AI and PREMO data-equalization for multi-classification of brain-tumors (Metastatic, Glioblastoma, Meningioma, Pituitary) using MRI generated DICOM slices. SIENNA is an energy-efficient AI that uses three CNN blocks and requires 175K–285K trainable parameters. By integrating adversarial training, SMOTE, and HYEROPT we brace the model against overfitting or shortcut-learning. Despite its lightweight microarchitecture, SIENNA maintains high accuracy(92–96%) across both clinical and public datasets.

Presenter(s): Raid Bader

Showcase Advisor: Harry Efstathiadis

Abstract: Monitoring tungsten phase transformations is essential for advancing spintronics and MRAM technology. This study investigates spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) as a non-destructive tool for distinguishing metastable β-W from stable α-W. Tungsten films (15–150 nm) were deposited via DC magnetron sputtering, with α-W induced through vacuum annealing. Samples were characterized using GIXRD, XRR, AFM, SEM, and four-point probe resistivity to establish a physical "ground truth". Optical constants were extracted by fitting B-Spline models to SE data using CompleteEASE software. Analysis revealed distinct refractive index (n) and extinction coefficient (k) patterns for each phase across 15, 30, and 60 nm thicknesses. The significant optical "gap" provides a unique fingerprint for rapid identification. This work demonstrates that SE effectively complements traditional techniques as a robust, in-situ monitor for phase transformations in tungsten thin films.

Presenter(s): Adair Hoge

Showcase Advisor: Susan Sharfstein

Abstract: Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are widely used to produce monoclonal antibodies for treating diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders. Antibody production is driven by the strong cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter, but transcription factor interactions with this promoter remain poorly understood, limiting production efficiency and increasing costs.

This project investigates CMV promoter regulation using reverse chromatin immunoprecipitation (rChIP). CHO cells were cultured in suspension, and chromatin was isolated and sonicated to 500–1000 bp fragments. Three sgRNAs (sense, nonsense, and antisense) guided promoter targeting, and qPCR evaluated enrichment specificity and efficiency. Although CMV pull-down was confirmed previously, specificity was limited. Ribonucleoprotein complex formation was assessed using EMSA and protein quantification during rChIP. Plasmid and restriction-digested DNA containing only the CMV promoter were used to test direct sgRNA binding. Current work focuses on optimizing sgRNA design to improve promoter targeting specificity.

Presenter(s): Lauren Anderson

Showcase Advisor: Arun Chandrasekaran

Abstract: Isothermal assembly allows the construction of DNA nanostructures at constant moderate temperatures. Further, assembly of DNA nanostructures in different counter ions expands their utility in various applications. In this work, we demonstrate the isothermal assembly of paranemic crossover (PX) DNA motifs in magnesium (Mg2+), calcium (Ca2+) and strontium (Sr2+) at 20 C and 37 C. Further, we study how differences in design affect the assembly of 4-stranded and 2-stranded PX molecules.

Presenter(s): Gwenyth Gallagher

Showcase Advisor: Arun Chandrasekaran

Abstract: DNA has been used as a material to construct nanoscale shapes and structures. Typically, DNA nanostructures are assembled by thermal annealing in buffers containing magnesium as a counterion. Although Mg2+ ions promote nanoscale assemblies of DNA nanostructures, they render them vulnerable to nucleases. In this work, we demonstrate the assembly of DNA nanostructures using different naturally occurring polyamines as cationic counterions. We assembled three model DNA nanostructures, a double crossover tile (DX), paranemic crossover (PX), and juxtaposed polycrossover structures (JX) using a 2-hour-long thermal annealing protocol with different concentrations of either polyamine. The assembly of the nanostructures were characterized by non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The results show that while polyamines can be used as organic biocompatible counterions for assembly of simple DNA nanostructure motifs, but the chemical structure and properties of the polyamine used need to be considered for efficient assembly.

Presenter(s): Omar Khurshid, Eunjo Lee, Jamari Harrell

Showcase Advisor: Scott Tenenbaum

Abstract: The pop-up tissue box has become ubiquitous due to its simplicity, convenience and utility. As a result, the design has seen little evolution since its inception despite significant limitations in reliability that interfere with regular use. Improved designs continue to receive little attention due to added complexity and capital cost.

In this work, we develop and implement a novel package geometry to resolve the reliability of the pop-up tissue mechanism over its product lifetime.  Purely geometric alterations are attractive due to the possibility for significant improvements with little to no increase in manufacturing costs.  A number of candidate geometries are devised and iterated upon before a final candidate is selected for physical prototyping.  Designs are assessed based on a number of performance metrics, with pop-up mechanism failure rate per lifetime the optimized quantity.  This work is crucial in laying the groundwork for future tissue packaging evolution

Presenter(s): Evan Limani

Showcase Advisor: Kathleen Dunn

Abstract: In the process of manufacturing chips, photolithography is a very important early step which can efficiently create a structure across an entire wafer. To do this, a wafer is coated in photoresist by spinning, which creates the pattern when covered with a photomask and exposed to light. During this photoresist ‘spin coating’, the photoacid generator (PAG) diffuses into the underlayer over the course of 6 seconds from the photoresist, contaminating the polymer in the wafer. In this project, a simulation was created to streamline making changes to this process. The 1-dimensional diffusion model was created using COMSOL Multiphysics and used applied experimental data. This model may help to prevent or reduce the PAG diffusion during spin coating in the future.

Presenter(s): Leah Sweeney

Showcase Advisor: Nathaniel Cady

Abstract: Grating-coupled fluorescent plasmonic imaging (GC-FP) enables high throughput detection of biological molecules. When fluorophores interact with surface plasmons, surface plasmon coupled emission (SPCE) amplifies fluorescence intensity in a distance-dependent manner, making the assay sensitive to minute changes. Previous work has used these sensors in detecting COVID-19, Lyme disease, and other conditions. In this work, we expand the use of the GC-FP platform to study nucleic acid nanostructures, which can allow for novel capabilities in biosensors. Specifically, we investigate the competition of switchback DNA, a globally left-handed structure composed of two parallel strands that form a series of conventional duplexes perpendicular to the helix axis, with conventional duplexes by monitoring the displacement of DNA strands on GC-FP chips. When a duplex complement is introduced, it displaces the switchback complement, turning off the SPCE signal. We also are investigating a novel duplex-to-switchback conversion by introducing mismatches within the duplex DNA.

Presenter(s): Antoinette Mastrangelo

Showcase Advisor: Arun Chandrasekaran

Abstract: DNA nanotechnology is a field investigating the use of synthetic DNA to assemble nanoscale structures for various applications. One application is using DNA nanostructures to create crystalline scaffolds that allow the hosting of guest molecules for structure determination. Such a 3D DNA scaffold has been developed using the DNA tensegrity triangle motif. However, these crystals diffract to low resolution, with the size of the starting unit affecting crystal resolution. Here, we utilize the shape and sequence symmetry of the tensegrity triangle motif to create self-assembled 3D DNA lattices that are assembled from individual junctions of a triangle rather than a whole triangle. We designed symmetric or asymmetric junctions that can assemble into triangular motifs that eventually assemble into a 3D crystal with a pre-defined lattice arrangement. We performed non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) to validate the assembly of the individual junctions and demonstrate successful crystallization of some of these variations.

Presenter(s): Logan O'Brien

Showcase Advisor: Harry Efstathiadis

Abstract: With renewable energy on the rise, solar cells made with lead-free perovskite thin films on flexible substrates have gained traction in scientific and engineering communities due to high efficiency and low cost. Hence, the goal of this research and design project is to devise a fabrication process for creating such devices. In the work being conducted, efforts are focused on the development and revision of a solar cell fabrication technique utilizing cesium bismuth iodide (Cs3Bi2I9) as an absorbent layer. However, poor film morphology and integrity are a remnant concern. Therefore, new efforts are being made to find a suitable solution or replacement absorber. Currently, cesium sodium bismuth iodide (Cs2NaBiI6) is being investigated as an alternative absorbent material to Cs3Bi2I9 as it exhibits superior environmental stability and a smaller bandgap of 2.11 eV compared to our current absorber, Cs3Bi2I9, which exhibits a bandgap of 2.38 eV.

Presenter(s): Laxmi Pant

Showcase Advisor: Kathleen Dunn

Abstract: Coolant circuit components inside pressurized water reactors (PWRs) are exposed to high temperature water, leading to corrosion of the primary circuit materials. This corrosion results in the formation of oxide layer(s) known as CRUD, primarily composed of nickel ferrites, nickel oxides, and other nickel-iron-chrome spinel oxides. The transport and deposition of particles downstream depend in part on the surface charge of the particles and the nearby surfaces. Surface properties of synthetic CRUD particles covering a range of compositions and water chemistry (Zn addition and reducing environment) were measured. X-ray diffraction was used to screen the products for phase purity. The isoelectric point (IEP), the pH at which the surfaces are neutrally charged, was obtained by measuring zeta potential over a range of pH and finding the intercept. Analyzing IEP trends with Ni and Zn provides qualitative insights on CRUD behavior with changes in the coolant chemistry.

Presenter(s): Harry Weinstein, Anton Bonacci, Isabelle Savage, Carlos Matos Cancel

Showcase Advisor: Scott Tenenbaum

Abstract: A common issue with the Kleenex tissue box is that tissues don’t always stay connected during dispense and user must reach in to grab the next tissue. This results in insanitation and inconvenience. This issue becomes more prevalent as the tissue stack is depleted. This error is a result of the steepening of the "release angle," the angle made by tissue being pulled and the tissue below that it interlocks with. A greater release angle reduces the friction between the interlocked tissues, resulting in increased failure rate.  

We present a model for a redesigned tissue box, featuring a spring-platform system that keeps the tissue stack close to the top of the box, resulting in a constant low release angle throughout the lifetime of the box, and thus a reduced error rate. Our presentation includes a proposed theoretical model with preliminary prototyping.

Presenter(s): Shadi Omranpour

Showcase Advisor: Nathaniel Cady

Abstract: By combining magnetoelectric (ME) materials and 2D materials it is theoretically possible to create transistor-like devices for high-speed, energy efficient non-volatile memory. However, integration of ME and 2D materials with standard CMOS microelectronics is limited by multiple processing constraints. In this research, we aim to develop strategies for the fabrication of ME memory devices that are compatible with standard CMOS-based integrated circuits. Our first goal is to develop Cr2O3 magnetoelectric thin films below 450 °C, which is within the typical back-end-of-line (BEOL) thermal budget for CMOS processing, while maintaining desirable magnetic and structural properties. We are also focused on patterned, controlled growth of MoS2 2D layers, and integration with Cr2O3. In our preliminary experiments we have successfully deposited and characterized Cr2O3 films on silicon substrates using physical vapor deposition. We have also developed a multi-step approach to patterning MoS2 2D layers and are currently optimizing that process.

Presenter(s): Mohamed Torky

Showcase Advisor: Woongje Sung

Abstract: Gallium oxide (β-Ga₂O₃) is a promising ultra-wide-bandgap semiconductor for next-generation power devices because of its large bandgap (~4.8 eV) and high theoretical critical electric field (>8 MV/cm). However, its strong crystallographic anisotropy significantly affects breakdown behavior, especially in vertical devices where edge termination is critical. In this work, anisotropy-aware TCAD simulations were performed on (001)-oriented β-Ga₂O₃ Schottky diodes to evaluate three edge termination schemes: single-zone junction termination extension (SZ-JTE), ring-assisted JTE (RA-JTE), and multi-floating-zone JTE (MFZ-JTE). The [010] direction exhibits a significant reduced critical field, causing enhanced electric-field crowding and substantial breakdown degradation at high JTE doses. Experimentally, nitrogen-implanted SZ-JTE and MFZ-JTE devices annealed at 1100°C for 30 min achieved breakdown voltages of 750 V and 775 V, respectively, compared with 400-450 V for unterminated devices. The lower-than-expected values indicate incomplete acceptor activation and process-related limitations, underscoring the need for anisotropy-aware design and fabrication optimization.