0923125_Mannella

1. Acquisition of major research instrumentation for advancedphotoelectron spectroscopy with spin, angle and spatial resolutionNorman Mannella, University of Tennessee Knoxville, DMR 0923125 Besides the capabilities of growing new materials and characterize them by e.g. systematic transport and structural studies, detailed investigations of the electronic structure are essential in order to advance our understanding of the fundamental underpinnings of advanced material properties. We are building a laboratory-based photoemission electron spectrometer for analysis of the chemical and electronic properties of various forms of condensed matter. The proposed instrument will combine unique capabilities: 1) a monochromatized X-ray source with two different energies (Al Ka = 1486 eV and Ag La = 2984 eV) with micro-spot of  130 mm for analysis of very small or inhomogeneous samples, and 2) a state-of-the-art hemispherical electron analyzer provisioned with a mini-Mott detector for electron spin detection. This instrumentation will be used to investigate the electronic properties of a wide variety of advanced electronic materials, including materials for energy, spintronics, magnetic data storage, polymers, catalysts, and of condensed matter in disparate forms such as biological cells, bacteria and minerals.

2. Acquisition of major research instrumentation for advancedphotoelectron spectroscopy with spin, angle and spatial resolutionNorman Mannella, University of Tennessee Knoxville, DMR 0923125 Materials are the building blocks of every form of solid matter naturally existing in the universe or manufactured by humankind. Discoveries of new materials have often marked a major turning point in human society. Recently, impressive advances in materials synthesis resulted in the discovery of an ever-increasing number of complex materials exhibiting exotic macroscopic properties. Together with low-dimensional systems and nanostructures, complex materials have also begun to take on a technological relevance with applications ranging from spintronics and nanotechnology to biotechnology and life sciences. The proposed science and supporting infrastructure at the University of Tennessee provide an excellent setting for the education and training of internationally competitive students and postdocs. The proposed research activities will take place in a laboratory on campus hosting state-of-the-art equipment and modern technologies. Students and postdocs will have the unique opportunity of being exposed to vacuum technology, material synthesis and characterization methodologies, and advanced optics and x-ray spectroscopy techniques. This body of experience will constitute a solid background for any individual willing to pursue a scientific career either in a private industry or in an academic environment.