Corneliu GHICA

Dr. Corneliu GHICA is a Scientific Researcher I and Head of the Laboratory of Atomic Structures and Defects in Advanced Materials (LASDAM) at the National Institute of Materials Physics. His work focuses on advanced materials characterization using atomic-resolution electron microscopy techniques and development of functional materials for applications in sensors, electronics, and energy technologies.

Dr. GHICA's educational background includes:

• PhD in Physics (2001): 'Study of thin films deposited by laser ablation: manganites with colossal magnetoresistance effect' from University of Bucharest and Louis Pasteur University of Strasbourg
• PhD in Physics (1995): Optical engineering, optical spectroscopy and laser technologies from University of Bucharest
• BSc Physics (1994): Optical engineering, optical spectroscopy and laser technologies from University of Bucharest

His research expertise centers on in-depth microstructural characterization of advanced materials using aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy. He specializes in quantitative HRTEM analysis of strain fields associated with defects and interfaces, and structure-properties correlation in thin films and nanostructured materials. His work spans ferroelectric materials, gas sensors, and electronic devices, with emphasis on atomic-resolution techniques like HRTEM, STEM, EDS, and EELS.

Dr. GHICA's recent publications reveal a strong focus on functional oxide materials, particularly zirconia-based systems for electronic applications, and development of advanced gas sensors. His research combines experimental characterization with theoretical modeling, demonstrating expertise in both materials synthesis and advanced characterization techniques. The work shows increasing international collaboration across Europe with applications spanning energy conversion, environmental monitoring, and electronic devices.

Dr. GHICA has led multiple significant research projects:

• Nanoscaled ferroelectric (pseudo)-binary oxide thin film supercapacitors (NanOx4Estor) - M-ERA.NET project (2022-2024)
• Interplay structure-functionality in nanostructured materials for gas sensors - Mobility project (2019-2020)
• From 2D to 3D+ nanoscale characterization of advanced functional materials - PCE project (2017-2019)
• Atomically resolved structure and interface phenomena in nano-scale modulated smart materials - PCE project (2013-2015)
• Laser processing of defects induced in silicon by RF plasma hydrogenation - PCE project (2007-2010)

As Head of LASDAM, Dr. GHICA leads a team focused on atomic-scale materials characterization using advanced electron microscopy techniques. The laboratory specializes in TEM specimen preparation, thin film deposition by PVD, PLD and sol-gel, and in-situ/operando experiments to study material behavior under real operating conditions. His expertise in electron microscopy makes him a valuable resource for the broader scientific community.