As a collaborator
We are interested in collaborating with researchers and students in all disciplines. Current collaborations are listed under Collaborators and Links. If you are interested, contact Profs. Shtein and Pipe.

As a student
We are interested in highly motivated and capable students. Currently, we have the following available positions:

Graduate Projects

Novel Antenna Structures:
This project involves the design and fabrication of electrically conducting, dielectric, and ferromagnetic thin-film structures on non-planar substrates, especially fiber and textile-based substrates. Applications include energy conversion devices (e.g. solar fabrics), novel communication devices, and structurally integrated electronics. The student will develop models predicting conductivity and loss in conductors, novel methods of fabrication and patterning, and will work closely with the Kotov group in Chemical Engineering and other collaborators outside of U of M.

We are looking for one graduate student research assistant (GSRA) for this position. Students with existing fellowships are encouraged to apply, but selection is based on motivation, academic merit, hands-on work experience, and research abilities.
Jan. 2008 NOTE: This position is currently filled.

Nanostructured metal films for solar cell applications:
This project involves the design, modeling, and fabrication of metallic nanostructures with enhanced optical properties (e.g. high optical transparency in a specified spectral region) for application in organic and hybrid inorganic-organic solar cells.

We are looking for one graduate student research assistant (GSRA) for this position. Students with existing fellowships are encouraged to apply, but selection is based on motivation, academic merit, hands-on work experience, and research abilities. 
Oct. 2007 NOTE: This position is currently filled.

Undergraduate Projects

Energy Harvesting from Foot Traffic:
This project involves developing a piezoelectric platform that will convert energy in footsteps to electricity, and an accompanying display that will visualize the instantaneous and cumulative amounts of converted energy. This platform will be installed in high-traffic areas of the University of Michigan Hospital, to increase public awareness of energy issues and novel methods of electricity generation.

We are looking for one to two undergraduate students to work on this project for independent study credit or salary. Candidate(s) must demonstrate ability in electrical circuit design, hands-on construction, and independent thinking.

Optical sensors based on organic fluorphores:
This project is aimed at developing chemical and mechanical sensors based on organic molecules and inorganic nanostructures dispersed in a variety of matrix materials.

We are looking for one undergraduate student to work on this project for independent study credit. Candidate must demonstrate strong laboratory skills, motivation and commitment.
Sep. 2007 NOTE: This position is currently filled.