The research is intended to develop a fundamental atomistic understanding of the new deposition process, develop techniques to design unique nanostructures and explore specific structures for potential applications. It builds on two distinct techniques for microstructure- and nanostructure-control during layer deposition; glancing angle deposition and low-energy ion-assisted growth. He will focus on building nanopipes and nanorods using the combination of these two approaches in order to build nanostructures with unique new electro-mechanical, catalytic, and tribological functionalities. Gall expects that his research, which will include the design, synthesis, and testing of four functional nitride nanostructures, will have broad applications in energy efficiency, fuel cells, robots and possibly solar cells. One of the nanostructure devices already built is the nitride nanospring pressure-sensors array, which may be used for sensitive robot skin. Another application of the research is nanoporous, self-lubricating, hard coatings for high-temperature bearings in fuel-efficient jet-engines and gas-turbines.

Gall’s research group, which includes undergraduate and graduate students, will employ techniques used in the microelectronic industry and also be involved in developing the techniques that will be used in 5-10 years from now in the industry. Gall expects to have both graduate and undergraduate students working with him over the next five years under the research grant. Also included in the research proposal, Gall has already run a graduate course “Thin Film Growth.”

In addition, Gall’s research group will also create a hands-on exhibit for the Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, located in North Greenbush, NY. He anticipates involving undergraduate students in the design and construction of the exhibit, which will use ping-pong-ball-sized “atoms” to help get young children to understand atoms and how they can be arranged to create nanostructures.

Gall came to Rensselaer in 2002 from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Originally from Switzerland, he currently resides in Troy and has a family with three young daughters (five, four, and one years old). Gall enjoys playing drums at the Loudenville Community Church and also uses a bicycle to get to work year-round. In addition to helping his students learn in class, one of his goals is to simply keep his students awake.