WG1 aims at gaining expertise in growing reproducibly novel graphene- and carbon-nanotube based low-dimensional structures deposited on large-area substrates as a prerequisite for successful implementation in planar multifunctional nanostructures.

Leader: Assoc. Prof. P. Rafailov

The research aims of WG2 are growth and characterization of 2D and 3D magnetic thin films by Atomic Layer Deposition, graphene growth by Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition and tailoring of novel nanostructures for spintronic device applications based on graphene and 3D and 2D topological insulators.

Leader: Prof. M. Gospodinov

The basic goal of WG3 is the application of novel technologies for the preparation of transition metal oxide films and the modification of chromogenic properties towards the improvement of the electrochromic device parameters for possible industrial deployment.

Leader: Prof. K. Gesheva

The research of WG4 is focused on topics in the field of physics of thermotropic and lyotropic liquid crystal systems, including the biophysics of soft and living matter. One of the main objectives of the group is to expand the available data on the interaction of soft matter with nanostructures of different type and composition in order to produce and characterize combined nanocomposite high-level smart materials and facilitate their application.

Leader: Assoc. Prof. Y. Marinov

WG5 activities are related to the construction of a femtosecond laser system. This system, together with the already available at the Institute lasers and spectral-and-measuring equipment, will be used for laser micromachining and surface processing of different materials, thin film deposition and production of nanostructures by PLD, for laser cleaning, characterization and analysis of various materials.

Leader: Assoc. Prof. T. Petrov