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Stuart Tessmer Associate Professor of Physics 4237 Biomedical Physical Sciences East Lansing, MI 48824-2320 Phone:(517)355-9200x2210 Email: tessmer at pa dot msu dot edu
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research
I study the physics of electrons inside condensed matter systems, such as metals, semiconductors, and superconductors.
To see what the charges do on nanometer length scales, my group develops and applies incredibly sensitive tools
call scanning probe microscopies. To see these microscopes in action, and to learn more about the group and current
projects, please follow the Nano Probe Group link below (or click on the bar to the left).
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I am currently teaching the undergraduate optics lab, Physics 431 .
The picture above shows a unique experimental setup which uses optics techniques
to introduce the nanoscale world of scanning probe microscopy. In this case the technique
is also known as atomic force microscopy. The students use a piezoelectric scanning tube to
move a sharp tip over a surface. The tip is connected to a tiny spring and mirror.
As the tip drags along, the atomic forces between the surface atoms and the tip cause it
to move up and down. The deflection is detected using a laser. The result is a great example
of a near-field microscope that can image the surface with a resolution better than
the wavelength of the laser light.
bio
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