The research focus of the Institute of Semiconductor and Solid State Physics lies on the growth, nanofabrication, characterization, modification and applications of semiconducting hetero- and nanostructures, of ferromagnetic structures and materials, of oligomers, polymers and metals. It covers all aspects of nanostructures, ranging from fundamental investigations and modeling of physical properties up to the realization of novel nanostructures for quantum optics, infrared optoelectronics, magnetic, spintronic and thermoelectric devices.

Nanostructures are fabricated using advanced lithography and processing techniques including electron beam lithography, holographic lithography, as well as self-assembled growth of quantum dots and wires using molecular beam epitaxy, metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy and chemical synthesis. For these purposes, a Class-100 cleanroom facility with all necessary processing equipment is run at the institute. The objective of nanofabrication is to produce defect-free structures in the sub-50-nm range with precise control of shapes and compositions, sharp heterointerfaces and excellent optical, electronic and magnetic properties. Particular emphasis is placed on the development of site-control techniques for the positioning of self-assembled nanostructures.