Dr. Kevin Kucharczyk

Students will investigate how heat is generated and managed in semiconductor devices such as photodetectors using COMSOL Multiphysics. They will learn basic semiconductor and heat-transfer concepts, build simplified device geometries, and run steady‑state thermal simulations while varying materials, geometry, and operating conditions. Students will use COMSOL both to visualize temperature distributions and to export data (e.g., CSV files) that can be imported into MATLAB for additional plotting and analysis. Students will build both conceptual understanding and practical modeling skills through a sequence of structured activities.

Foundational Knowledge Development and Literature Review
Read selected textbook (“Semiconductor Physics and Devices Basic Principles by Donald Neamen 3rd Edition”)  sections on semiconductor physics (e.g., pn junctions, carrier transport).
Watch short instructional and tutorial videos on semiconductor devices, thermal management, and the basics of using COMSOL Multiphysics.
Conduct a literature review using Google Scholar to analyze research papers on thermal modeling of semiconductor devices. 
A weekly meeting will be held to discuss findings and progress.
Simulation-Based Learning Using COMSOL Multiphysics 

Hands-On Simulation Practice, Analysis, and Communication of Results

Run steady-state thermal simulations and generate temperature distribution plots to compare different designs or operating conditions.

Export key results (for example, temperature vs. position or power) as CSV files and import them into MATLAB for additional plotting or comparison between simulation cases.

Maintain a brief research notebook documenting model setups, parameter choices, and results.

Prepare a final poster or short presentation summarizing the project goals, methods, key simulations, and conclusions about thermal behavior and potential design improvements.

Because SURI is designed for novice researchers, prior research experience is not required. Ideally, mentees will have completed or be currently enrolled in an introductory course in physics and/or circuits and have basic algebra and calculus skills. Familiarity with fundamental concepts such as voltage, current, and basic physical principles would be helpful but is not mandatory. Comfort with using a computer, a willingness to learn, and curiosity about electronics or semiconductor devices are more important than prior technical experience. Previous exposure to software tools such as COMSOL Multiphysics or MATLAB is not expected, as all necessary skills will be introduced and supported throughout the project.

Students will be encouraged to share and extend their work through several possible outcomes:

+Presentation of a poster or talk at the SURI Expo and, if available, at on-campus undergraduate research events or showcases.
+Preparation of a conference-style poster or abstract for a regional undergraduate research conference.
+Opportunity to continue the project into the academic year as an independent study or ongoing research, with the potential to contribute to a future publication or external presentation if the work develops sufficiently.

Hybrid

Students are expected to engage in research activities for approximately 20 or more hours per week. Work will be a combination of on-campus and virtual activities. Ideally, students will spend 2–3 days per week on campus for hands-on work in the lab or computer space, with the remaining hours spent independently or in small virtual groups.

Structured mentorship will include a mix of virtual and in-person meetings. One longer weekly meeting (60–90 minutes) will focus on project planning, background discussions, and overall progress. Two to three shorter meetings (30–60 minutes each) will be used for troubleshooting COMSOL simulations, reviewing results, and planning next steps. This hybrid approach allows students to gain hands-on experience while providing flexibility for independent and remote work.

Final Schedule will be agreed upon with selected students.