ECE-659: Quantum Transport : Atom to Transistor

Spring 2009: MWF 9:30-10:20 a.m. EE115

Course Objective

To convey the basic concepts of quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics using electrical engineering related examples to graduate students with little or no background in these subjects.

Course Description

Traditionally atomistic approaches have been used to model materials in terms of average parameters like the mobility or the diffusion coefficient which are used as inputs to macroscopic device models. This approach is still widely used but it is not adequate to meet the challenges and opportunities afforded by the development of nanotechnology that makes it possible to engineer materials and devices on a length scale as small as several nanometers (atomic distances are ~ 0.1 nm). An integrated approach is needed that embeds modern atomistic thinking directly into the models used for non-equilibrium systems like nanoscale transistors, energy conversion devices and bio-sensors. This requires more than just quantum mechanics - it requires an appreciation of some of the most advanced concepts of non-equilibrium statistical mechanics. Our aim is to condense the essential concepts into a one semester course,assuming no prior background other than linear algebra

Online Tutorials

Concepts of Quantum Transport : A series of four lectures