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The electronic properties of grapheneHometown: Seattle, Washington Major: Physics Why physics: A physics major learns general problem-solving skills that apply to all areas of science and engineering. Physics also has a very good reputation among employers and graduate schools. Whether a student is applying to law school or looking to work for a tech company, everyone likes to see a degree in physics. Research: I’m doing research with Professor Heyman exploring the electronic properties of graphene, which is a one-atom-thick sheet of graphite. Graphene to improve computers: Graphene has the potential to replace silicon as the main semiconductor used in computers and all other electronics. Its unique electronic properties would allow engineers to create computers that are both faster and smaller. The only trouble is that the material is still very difficult to work with, and researchers have not settled on the best way to produce the material. Making graphene: My role in the project is making the material, which has been the major challenge for researchers studying the material. We started by using Scotch tape to pull graphite layers apart, and now we are creating graphene in solution with chemical reduction methods. Life beyond physics: I am one of the arts editors for the Mac Weekly. My articles include movie reviews, student interviews, concert reviews, and anything else that students may want to hear about. I have also hosted a college radio show. Last spring, I studied abroad in Italy. I don’t think everything I study in college should relate to my career. I am also quite involved in music. I studied classical piano for ten years and have taken lessons in our music department since freshman year. After graduation: Next year I will be going for a master’s degree (and perhaps later a PhD) in bioengineering at UC–San Diego, proof that a physics degree can really lead to anything. What else: While research at Macalester is often published, I think the role it plays in education is far more important. It is also one of the benefits of studying science at a liberal arts college. |
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 Michael Richter |
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