
Our group studies novel electromagnetic materials, both at microwave frequencies as well as at optical wavelengths. Much of our work is centered on the development of metamaterials--artificially structured composites with novel properties. Negative index materials represent a well-known and intriguing example of the types of metamaterials we are interested in. For more information, please see the publications from our group located on these pages.
Our programs generally have an experiment/measurement as well as a theory/modeling component. We thus seek qualified candidates whose backgrounds are in either measurement and fabrication techniques or methods of analysis. Any prior background in metamaterials, or prior experience in a metamaterials group will be advantageous. Likewise, prior experience with electromagnetic phenomena in general--photonic crystals or plasmons, for example--will also be of benefit
Our need for post doctoral researchers is ongoing, but will depend on available funding. Interested applicants should contact Professor Smith for more information. Applicants should also submit a CV that lists present and previous work experience and education, as well as all publications that the applicant has coauthored. A cover letter should be included, describing the applicant's research interests. Finally, three references familiar with the applicant should be listed.
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We are currently looking for graduate student researchers to join our metamaterials research program. Our group studies the development and application of novel electromagnetic materials. We are interested both in fundamentals as well as device development. Those interested should browse the publications from our group posted on this site, as well as those from other groups (also posted here) to gain some perspective on this exciting and growing research field. In addition, several introductory review and popular articles are available or will soon be available from this site.
Interested students must apply to the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at Duke University for admission to the graduate program. While prospective students are encouraged to contact and/or visit our group, students must first be admitted to the ECE department before a research position can be established. In the cover letter that accompanies the admissions package, the student should note their interest in our group and in metamaterials or plasmon related research topics.

We always welcome undergraduates interested in research experience to join our group! Undergraduate student researchers have played a major role in much of our published metamaterials work, at the same time gaining valuable skills and experience. A variety of options are available for undergraduates, including supervised research for course credit, fellowships and paid positions. Depending on the background and interests of the student, projects will be developed appropriate for the student, and with the supervision of other senior researchers.
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Metamaterials Electromagnetic
metamaterials are artificially structured composites
that can be engineered to have desired electromagnetic
properties, while having other advantageous material
properties. In addition to their potential in practical
applications and devices, metamaterials can offer unique
and previously unexplored material
properties. | |
Negative Index
Materials What are negative index
materials? How do they work? All known naturally
occurring materials possess positive refractive index.
Metamaterials, however, can be designed to have a
negative refractive index, and will thus bend light in a
unique manner. Our group studies the fundamental
properties of negative refraction, as well as practical
applications for negative index metamaterials. More
information can be found on our negative
refraction home page. | 
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Plasmonic
Nanostructures Metals at optical
wavelengths have unusual properties because their
dielectric constant can be negative. At the interface
between two media having opposite signs of permittivity,
surface plasmons can be excited that give metals a
remarkable response to incident electromagnetic
radiation. By engineering this response, we hope to
develop nano-optic technology: optical elements not
limited by the wavelength of light! Learn more at our
plasmonics home page.
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