Placement Information
Year you started your placement
2012
Placement period
May – August
Supervisor’s name
Peter Wahl
Project Details
Overview
My project is based around the design and construction of a couple STM/AFM head for use in studying the characteristics of materials with atomic resolution at low temperature.
Project objectives
My initial goal was to get an already built STM head up to working order. Completing that I was to design and test a coupled STM/AFM q-plus style sensor for simultaneous measurement of atomic force and tunneling current.
Research outcomes
I have managed to get the STM head fully operational and have achieved
Project status
Completed
My Co-op Experience at MPI
Why did you apply for a placement with Max Planck Institute?
My application for placement at MPI was a combination of both a desire to get more cultural experience in Germany and to work at a prestigious research institute. It was clear that it was a great opportunity to gain experience in fundamental physics research as well as gaining insight into the current frontiers of science.
What recommendations do you have for students who wish to participate in MPI-UBC exchange program?
There are always lots of talks and sessions going on at the institute. Make sure to take advantage of as many as possible, they are usually very interesting.
Tell us about your travels and cultural experiences in Germany and the rest of the Europe
During my first work term in Germany, I spend a great deal of time travelling to nearby countries. I managed to see a large portion of Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, southern France, Monaco, and parts of Italy.
This time around, I have spent most of my time seeing Germany in more detail. I usually see somewhere new every weekend. If I’m not travelling anywhere in particular I go for on hikes either through the Black Forest or into the Alps.
