Dr Heike Riel

Research Priorities: semiconductor physics, nanotechnology, device concepts for future nanoelectronics, optoelectronics, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), quantum computing
Heike Riel is a physicist. The focus of her research is semiconductor physics. She has advanced the development of semiconducting nanowires. They are the basis for a new generation of computer processors. She helped develop high-contrast organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Today, OLED displays are used in many smartphones and tablet computers. She is also a leader in the development of quantum computers.
Heike Riel researches at the interface between basic research and technology. With her working group, she investigates energy-efficient transistors made of semiconductor nanowires called tunnelling field effect transistors (TFETs). TFETs are made of silicon or silicon-germanium compounds. The gates are arranged around a nanotube where the tunnel effect takes place. TFETs can be used in optoelectronics and molecular electronics for switches and memory applications. They are also an important basis for a new generation of computer processors. This could replace silicon-based chip technology, which is reaching its physical limits as devices become increasingly smaller in size. Heike Riel and her working group are also examining how the properties of nanowires change when they are stretched or compressed.
It is also a key participant in the development of quantum computers. Quantum computers use the laws of quantum physics. They are intended to perform highly complex calculations in the future, which would not be possible to be processed with conventional technology. Heike Riel develops quantum computers intending to render them easily usable for applications in industry, science and business.
In her early work, Heike Riel laid the foundation for developing high-contrast AMOLED screens (Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode). She co-developed a 20-inch screen with an active matrix of amorphous silicon thin-film transistors (a-Si-TFT). Compared to LCD flat screens, OLED screens consume less energy and are cheaper to manufacture. In addition, OLED displays reproduce a broader range of colours and are more flexible. They allow screens to be built in three-dimensional shapes, such as curved or rollable displays.