Steven Koester

Biography

Steven Koester is the director of Notre Dame Nanoscience and Technology. Koester's research focuses on novel electronic, photonic, spintronic, and sensing device concepts, particularly those using 2D materials and wide bandgap semiconductors. These include advanced electronic devices, scaled MOSFETs for end-of-roadmap VLSI applications, cryogenic CMOS, RF devices, and high-power transistors. His group also explores novel optoelectronic devices, with an emphasis on advanced photodetectors and optical modulators. They have also developed innovative spintronic devices for magnetic field sensing and invented biosensor concepts for early detection of diseases such as lung cancer.

Koester’s lab pursues its research goals through theoretical analysis, device design and simulation, process development, fabrication, and characterization. All group members fabricate devices in the advanced cleanroom facilities and gain a full range of skills necessary to pursue a career in industry or academia. His work has been supported by a wide range of sources, including the federal government (e.g., NSF, AFOSR, DARPA), as well as industry, state, and charitable foundations.