Zlatko Sitar

Zlatko Sitar is the Kobe Steel Distinguished Professor and Professor of Physics at NC State University, holding joint appointments in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering (College of Engineering) and the Physics Department at NCSU, as well as the University of Nagoya, Japan. He leads the WideBandgaps research laboratory and directs the Materials Research Center at NCSU.

Research Focus

His work centers on wide bandgap semiconductors (GaN, AlN) including crystal growth via halide vapor phase epitaxy, MBE, and MOCVD processes. Key achievements include pioneering III-nitride MBE with ECR plasma sources, commercializing AlN crystal growth (via HexaTech, Inc.), and advancing UV optoelectronics through device engineering. He has developed epi-ready wafers for deep-UV lasers/LEDs and invented lateral polar structures for novel devices like superjunction-based power electronics.

Publications & Impact

Recent research emphasizes defect analysis in AlN/GaN, Schottky diode optimization, and spintronic terahertz emission. Over 100+ publications span journals like Applied Physics Letters and IEEE Transactions, reflecting expertise in semiconductor characterization, ion implantation, and heterojunction design.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

• Founded HexaTech, Inc. (AlN wafer production)
• Co-founded Adroit Materials (UV devices and GaN substrates)

Awards & Recognition

• Kobe Steel Distinguished Professor title

Labs & Collaborations

His global network includes partnerships across four continents. The WideBandgaps lab and Materials Research Center serve as hubs for innovation in ultra-wide bandgap materials and devices.