Surfaces, Interfaces and 2D Materials Research Group
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Electron–Phonon Fluctuations in TiSe₂
Titanium diselenide (TiSe₂) is a material that, below a temperature of about 200 K, transitions into a special state – a charge density wave. This state is accompanied by structural modifications, but the exact mechanism behind the transition is still not fully understood. One hypothesis suggests that strong interactions between electrons and phonons (lattice vibrations) play a crucial role. The aim of the research is to theoretically study how electron–phonon coupling affects the electronic structure of TiSe₂ and the emergence of the charge density wave.Contact: Dino Novko
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Dielectric Properties and Plasmons in Doped SrTiO₃
Strontium titanate (SrTiO₃) has long attracted researchers’ attention because it exhibits superconductivity when a small amount of impurities is added (so-called doping). However, the mechanism by which electrons in this material form a superconducting state is not yet fully clarified. The goal of this research is to study how dielectric properties and plasmon excitations (collective electron oscillations) change with different doping levels using density functional theory (DFT) calculations, and to explain the conditions for the formation of an unconventional superconducting state.Contact: Dino Novko
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Electronic and Magnetic Properties of 2D and van der Waals Materials
This research focuses on the electronic and magnetic properties of various systems based on van der Waals and two-dimensional materials, such as graphene on different substrates and transition metal dichalcogenides. The study involves both material synthesis and characterization using electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and related techniques. A significant part of the experimental work takes place at large synchrotron facilities across Europe, where advanced electron spectroscopy methods are employed.Contact: Yuriy Dedkov
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Determination of Chemical Composition Using Electron Microscopy: Bridging Experiment and Simulation
The aim of this research is to become familiar with working on a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and with methods for determining the chemical composition of materials using X-ray spectroscopy arising from the interaction between the electron beam and the sample material. Experimental results will be compared with computational simulations to improve the accuracy of the analysis, especially for inhomogeneous samples.Contact: Marin Petrović
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Development of New Exfoliation Methods for Obtaining 2D Materials
This topic focuses on the development and application of new exfoliation (layer separation) methods for the preparation of atomically thin 2D materials such as graphene. The goal is to investigate their optical, electrical, and structural properties depending on the exfoliation technique and to select the most suitable materials (transition metal dichalcogenides and trichalcogenides) for the fabrication of simple 2D devices such as transistors, strain sensors, and photodetectors.Contact: Borna Radatović
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Investigation of Novel 2D Optoelectronic Devices
This research explores 2D semiconductors as a basis for developing optoelectronic components – light emitters, modulators, and photodetectors. The aim is to study various 2D materials and methods for enhancing their optoelectronic properties, such as doping, device configuration modification, and the application of external mechanical strain.Contact: Borna Radatović
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Effect of Mechanical Strain on 2D Flexible Devices
Due to their exceptional mechanical flexibility and single-atomic-layer thickness, 2D materials are highly suitable for flexible and stretchable electronic devices. The goal of the research is to develop a system for applying controlled strain and to study how it influences the optical, electrical, and structural properties of the samples.Contact: Borna Radatović
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Optimization of Interfaces Between 2D Semiconductors and 3D Metals
One of the main challenges in 2D devices is the high contact resistance between semiconductors and metallic electrodes. The aim of this research is to investigate and optimize contact interfaces between 2D semiconductors and 3D metals, and to explore how different metals and lithographic techniques affect interface quality. Special attention will be given to interface engineering through strain, interlayers, and doping.Contact: Borna Radatović
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Anisotropy of Properties in 2D Materials
Many 2D materials exhibit anisotropic (direction-dependent) properties due to their crystal structure and intermolecular bonding. This study will investigate a group of such low-symmetry materials and analyze the angular dependence of their optical, electrical, and morphological properties. Special attention will also be devoted to combinations of 2D materials in heterostructures and to the influence of the twist angle on their properties.Contact: Borna Radatović
Plasma and Laser Applied Research Group
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Laser Synthesis of Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Applications in Organic Dye Degradation
The research involves the synthesis of nanoparticles using pulsed laser deposition of thin films and laser ablation in liquids. The goal of the synthesis is to achieve desired properties that enable the photocatalysis of organic dyes under sunlight, which has wide applications in water purification from organic pollutants.Contact: Nikša Krstulović
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Development of Polymers with Advanced Properties
The aim of this research is to incorporate laser-synthesized nanoparticles into polymers using an atmospheric argon plasma jet. Such polymers exhibit improved barrier and antimicrobial properties and are useful in food packaging technology for maintaining freshness.Contact: Nikša Krstulović
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Plasma Meets Art
This research involves the application of an atmospheric plasma jet for the treatment of historical paper and canvas paintings, aiming at their protection and cleaning from fungi, mold, and atmospheric contaminants. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles will be incorporated into the paper and canvas materials to provide long-term protection.Contact: Nikša Krstulović
Group for Experimental Research of Advanced Electronic Materials
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Quantum Antiferromagnet Under Extreme Conditions
Magnetism in materials arises from the quantum-mechanical superexchange interaction, which often leads to antiferromagnetic ordering. In low-dimensional systems, quantum correlations can give rise to exotic quantum states, such as spin liquids with entangled spins. This research will focus on studying antiferromagnets under very low temperatures, high pressures, and strong magnetic fields, with the aim of determining the phase diagram and identifying possible exotic states.Contact: Mirta Herak
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Magnetic Symmetry of Antiferromagnets
The crystal and magnetic symmetries determine which physical properties of a magnetic material are allowed. This study will investigate the magnetic anisotropy of antiferromagnets by combining experimental measurements with modeling based on the symmetry of the crystal lattice. The work involves the use of equipment for measuring magnetic and physical properties, as well as handling cryogenic liquids and superconducting magnets.Contact: Mirta Herak
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Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) for Measuring Magnetic Properties of Materials
The aim of this research is to become familiar with the operation of a SQUID magnetometer — a device that uses Josephson junctions for highly sensitive measurements of magnetization and analysis of the magnetic properties of materials. The topic includes measurements of the magnetic properties of antiferromagnets to gain experience in experimental data analysis.Contact: Mirta Herak
Group for Research of Complex and Strongly Correlated Functional Materials
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Anomalous Hall Effect in Intercalated TMDs
This research focuses on the magnetic properties and magnetotransport of an intercalated transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) compound, with particular emphasis on the anomalous Hall effect arising from the interaction between conducting electrons and ordered magnetic moments. The student will learn how to characterize single crystals and perform measurements of the Hall coefficient and magnetic susceptibility while working with quantum materials.Contact: Petar Popčević
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Thermoelectric Properties of Quantum Materials
The research involves measuring the electrical resistivity, Seebeck coefficient, and thermal conductivity of cobalt-intercalated TaS₂. The Co₁/₃TaS₂ system is particularly interesting due to its complex magnetic behavior, which strongly influences its physical properties. The goal is to correlate the thermoelectric properties with the magnetic and electronic structure of the material. The topic is suitable for students interested in experimental solid-state physics and in interpreting data using theoretical models.Contact: Petar Popčević
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Effect of Uniaxial Pressure on the Ground States of Quantum Materials
This study explores how uniaxial mechanical pressure influences the ground states of intercalated transition metal dichalcogenides. By measuring electrical transport properties under controlled strain, changes in the magnetic and electronic phases are investigated. The student will gain hands-on experience with experimental transport measurement techniques and analysis of strain effects in quantum materials.Contact: Petar Popčević
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Stability of the Ground State of TMD Materials Under Hydrostatic Pressure
This research investigates how hydrostatic pressure affects the stability of the ground state in intercalated transition metal dichalcogenides, using magnetotransport measurements. The work provides experience in experimental studies of transport and magnetism under high pressure, as well as in examining complex electronic and magnetic phases.Contact: Petar Popčević