Nano-electro-mechanical Systems (NEMS) are just what their name describes: small devices which transfer energy between the electrical and mechanical domains.  Okay, what the hell does that mean? These are nanoscale devices (billionths of a meters in smallest dimensions) which move when given an electronic signal and/or produce an electronic signal upon moving.  They are the descendants of Micro-electro-mechanical Systems (MEMS), which are used in everyday electronics such as the Nintendo Wii-mote (accelerometers), DLP projection systems (micromirrors) and biological cell manipulation (actuators).  NEMS continue to build upon the functionality of electronics by harnessing their small size and new physical phenomena found at the nanoscale.

    My research focuses on harnessing NEMS relay & memory devices for ultra-low-power computation.  We are developing computational elements which consume 1000x less power in standby mode, are radiation resistant and can be deployed alongside ultra-high-performance electronics.  So, in the ultimate incarnation, imagine a radio which can be sent into space to hibernate for 1000 years before being activated.  Or, imagine your cell phone not needing a charge more than once a week.  Imagine lightweight electronics that can be sent into the depths of the Amazon or the dunes of the Sahara, carried on foot, without the need to plug-in.

In my research, I address the most important factors needed to bring computational NEMS devices into the world.
   
    1) Scaling theory: What characteristics should you exploit as the devices get smaller?
    2) Surface force characterization: What new surface phenomena will inhibit these devices?
    3) Nanoscale fabrication:  How small can you expect to make the movable parts?