Course Topics
The topics covered include: • Physics of semiconductor materials (e.g., crystal structure, energy bands, density of states, dopants, electronic transport) • Nanotechnology • pn junctions and diodes • MOSFETs • JFETs • Bipolar junction transistors • Optical devices • Sensors

Teaching format
Frontal lectures, homework, exercises, and laboratories.

Educational objectives
The objective of this course is an understanding of the physics and operation of semiconductor devices. Specifically, understanding of the formation and behaviour of semiconductor contacts, basic knowledge of nanotechnology and microfabrication, understanding of operation and design of MOSFETs, bipolar transistors and JFETs, and understanding of other devices such as, optical devices and sensors.

Additional educational objectives and learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding 1. Have a solid knowledge of semiconducting materials and devices 2. Know the concepts of semiconducting carrier transport and of device operation Applying knowledge and understanding 3. Be able to design electronic devices and choose the proper materials for them 4. Be able to properly use physical units Making judgements 5. Be able to think “out-of-the-box” when facing problems and critical issues. Learning skills Develop learning capabilities and autonomous thinking in order to pursue effectively further studies.

Assessment
The exam will be in in written form. Students will have the choice to take an oral midterm exam to earn a bonus of up to 5 points out of 30 for the final mark. The students might also have the possibility to substitute a part of the final exam with a group project to be carried out during the semester and concluded by an oral presentation

Evaluation criteria
The assessment criteria will be the accuracy of the answers given in the written examination, with particular attention to the resolution procedure adopted and the formal correctness of the same.