Dr Lewis Kastein

PhD, MPhys 1:1 First Class Honours

Ymchwil

Research interests

My research interests include the design, fabrication and characterisation of semiconductor/optoelectronic materials and devices. This includes the promising and developing field of III-V on Si materials and technologies. My work involves examining the detailed relationship between material growth, measured parameters and device performance.

I currently work for Cardiff University and IQE plc as a KTP (Knowledge Transfer Partnership) research associate and Device Technologist, supported by the Welsh government and Innovate UK. During my PhD I investigated the design, fabrication and characterisation of nanolasers, whilst also contributing to a number of collaborative research projects. I hold a first class Masters degree in physics from Cardiff University. I have varied teaching experience, including teacher training towards a PGCE for secondary school physics.

Utilising unique knowledge of techniques developed at Cardiff University my current role is to develop and embed new fabrication and characterisation capabilities within IQEs’ developing eco-system.  The use of these techniques will allow rapid in-line and enhanced assessment of the quality and suitability of grown material for customers’ device applications. Devices include but are not limited to VCSELs, amplifiers and lasers.

The Welsh government further support my work on III-V on Si technologies by funding multiple international investigations that enable advancement in the field. This includes investigations to develop material characterisation and device fabrication techniques specific to III-V on Si material systems.