Information technology

We work to understand the behavior of electrons and light in materials and how it allows us to realize core technology for 1) computer with fast computation/low power consumption/high information storage density and 2) display with high brightness/efficiency, and 3) next-generation quantum, neuromorphic computer. Thus, we are performing research on materials discovery with superior electrical/optical property and semiconductor device development for various applications.

We work to understand the behavior of electrons and light in materials and how it allows us to realize core technology for 1) computer with fast computation/low power consumption/high information storage density and 2) display with high brightness/efficiency, and 3) next-generation quantum, neuromorphic computer. Thus, we are performing research on materials discovery with superior electrical/optical property and semiconductor device development for various applications.

Emerging materials for semiconductor/
quantum technology

To make a ground-breaking improvement of the performance for semiconductor/quantum devices, emerging materials to outperform silicon needs to be discovered. For instance, emerging materials (e.g., atomically thin two dimensional semiconductors, transparent oxide semiconductor with high electron mobility, blue-emitting nitride semiconductors, flexible conducting polymers, nonvolatile ferroelectric materials) are able to realize new functionalities, which conventional silicon devices could not realize. Our department are performing an intensive research on synthesis and characterization of disruptive semiconductor/quantum materials to remarkably improve current performance of devices. Moreover, we makes a various collaboration to apply the development of materials into device technology.

Sensors based on new materials

The 4th industrial revolution refers to the establishment of a communication between devices and humans through the Internet of Things (IoT). Thus, sensor technology is the core element of the 4th industrial revolution. Above all, research on sensor based on highly sensitive semiconductor materials is essential in order to convert external input signals into electrical signals. Sensitive semiconductor materials and nanostructures can dramatically improve performance of various sensor devices (e.g., an image sensor that can sense light with various wavelengths, a tactile sensor that can convert a tactile signal on touch screen into an electrical signal, a gas sensor that can monitor exposure of dangerous gases in real time, etc.). Our department is performing research on the synthesis of new semiconductor materials that can be applicable for various sensors.

Next generation photonic devices

The discovery of light-material interaction phenomenon has enabled the realization of various optical devices such as LEDs, displays, and optical sensors. In our department, we study the light emitting devices and process technologies to achieve high resolution, high brightness and low power devices using the fundamental understanding of light-material interaction. In addition, we are interested in novel materials and nanostructures for realization and application of new photonic devices.

Next generation electronic and neuromorphic devices

Faster computation and larger memory storage are required to handle the big data and ever-increasing AI-related computations. In our department, we develop high-speed/low-power logic devices for high-performance computing and novel memory devices and processes for neuromorphic and/or brain-inspired computing. In addition, we are pursuing to develop electronic devices with new functionalities by adopting various functional materials such as ferroelectric, soft and transparent materials.