Scanning probes

Prof Yuri Korchev research interests include SICM for reliable imaging of living cells, alone and in combination with fluorescence microscopy and patch clamp for functional imaging, and the use of SCIM for scanning near field optical microscopy. In cellular biology, he researches the role of mechano-sensitivity in cells and in action of hormones in regulation of ion channels; the mapping of the distribution of single functional channels in living cells. In the field of biosensors, he is interested in the use of nanopipettes as biosensors.

Professor Lesley Cohen's  interests include the study of magnetic materials (for solid state magnetic cooling using magnetocalorics) and highly spin polarised magnetic materials (for spintronics and long range spin triplet superconductivity) as well as an interest in transport properties of high mobility materials such as narrow gap semiconductors and graphene, superconductors (in particular gap structure and vortex pinning), and Raman spectroscopy (surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy as a tool to understand Fuel Cell materials).

Prof Thornton's research focusses on structure/property relations of metal oxide surfaces and nanostructures, particularly of TiO2, with a shift in emphasis towards solid/liquid interfaces relevant to light harvesting applications. Scanning probe, laser and related instruments are employed, as well as synchrotron radiation and laser facilities at Harwell Lab.