Li's findings on 2D energy-efficient nanoelectronics recognized at NSF conference

By Peter Murphy

The poster details recent accomplishments as part of his 2019 NSF CAREER Award-funded project, “Toward sub-60-mV/decade steep transistors using Dirac-source carrier injection and high-mobility 2D monochalcogenides.” The goal of Li’s project is to investigate a novel transistor concept that can operate faster switching speeds while consuming less energy. Li says 2D layered crystals have emerged as one of the most promising materials to develop these energy-efficient nanoelectronics.

“In our research, we focus on field-effect transistors (FETs) as a case study to advance both the scientific understanding and technological development of 2D nanoelectronics,” Li says. “Our findings highlight the significant potential of 2D materials to extend Moore’s law through innovative interfacial designs.”

Li and his research team used FETs to learn how 2D materials, including 2D dielectric, 2D metal, and 2D semiconductor, interact with other layers in the device. Their findings could lead to much faster and more efficient electronics and extend Moore’s Law—the observation that the number of transistors in an integrated circuit will double every two years.

Li’s poster earned first place out of 25 entries. The People’s Choice winner was determined based on votes from NSF program directors, the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office, conference organizers and other participants. In addition to his research, Li described Buffalo and Western New York’s rich history of advancements in electricity.

“The University at Buffalo is building on Nikola Tesla’s historical legacy of electricity innovation and continues to lead in advancing the scientific and technological frontiers of electrical engineering, particularly in semiconductor technologies,” Li says. “With initiatives such as the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, the designation of Buffalo as a tri-city federal tech hub in 2023, and the establishment of the UB Center for Advanced Semiconductor Technologies in 2024, UB is well-positioned to drive innovation in semiconductors and reinforce its national and global prominence.”

In addition to advancements in 2D nanoelectronics, Li has supported three PhD students and two MS students with this funding. The award has also allowed Li to provide different research training experiences to several undergraduate students. Li also developed a new course that has been essential for the UB Department of Electrical Engineering’s Engineering Science (Quantum Science and Nanotechnology) MS program.

The two-day conference gave attendees insight into emerging trends in nanotechnology, and provided an opportunity for researchers to discuss this crucial area, according to Li.

“Nanotechnology remains a critical area for investment, particularly in my field of nanoelectronics,” Li says. “To ensure the United States maintains its global leadership in semiconductor technology, technological innovation and workforce development will be essential.”