There is substantial interest in developing new classes of semiconductor and thermoelectric materials exploiting the properties of Bismuth. Such materials are increasingly important for the development of optoelectronic, thermoelectric and electronic devices. These include materials for laser diodes (used for optical communications, DVD systems etc.), light emitting diodes solar cells, transistors and spintronic devices. Following on the success of the first international workshop on Bismuth-containing materials held in Michigan in 2010, this meeting will bring together groups undertaking research in the emerging area of Bismuth-containing materials and devices for a focussed three-day workshop. This is an interdisciplinary meeting bringing together physicists, chemists, materials scientists and engineers together to address this important emerging area. Topics will focus on theoretical activities, epitaxial growth, characterisation (optical, electrical and structural) and device performance of interest to both academic and industrial researchers.

This event, titled "Hybrid organic-inorganic nanomaterials for functional devices: processing and metrology" will showcase the work of the University of Surrey ATI and partner groups. It will also provide opportunities for networking towards the development of new consortia for collaborative R&D or commercial projects, and the engagement of academia and industry with the nanomaterials, devices, processes and metrology focus areas. 

There will be optional tours to discuss the capabilities and activities of two key NPL facilities relevant to this community - the Nanoanalysis group (hosted by Alex Shard) and the Polymer thin film group (hosted by Fernando Castro).