Coursework

Introduction to the thermodynamics of crystalline solids and phase equilibria. Topics include laws of thermodynamics, solution theory, surfaces and interfaces, equilibrium phase diagrams, and application to phase transformations in materials systems.

Provides understanding of transitions in materials, including intermolecular forces, self-assembly, physical organic chemistry, surface chemistry and electrostatics, hierarchical structure, and reactivity. Describes these fundamentals across classes of materials, including solid-state synthesis, polymer synthesis, sol-gel chemistry, and interactions with biological systems. Includes firsthand application of lecture topics through design-oriented experiments.

Introduction to micro/nano fabrication technologies: etching, deposition, lithography, thermal processes, and characterization. Laboratory sessions in MIT.nano clean rooms where students fabricate solar cells and choose from thin-film transistors, MEMS cantilevers, or microfluidic mixers. Students design, fabricate, and test their own devices in a final project, with emphasis on connecting materials, processing, design, and device performance.

Introduction to electromagnetism and electrostatics. Topics include electric charge and fields, Gauss's law, electric potential, capacitance, resistance, DC and AC circuits, magnetic fields, Ampere's law, Faraday's law, inductance, and Maxwell's equations.

Examines Euro-American design theory and practice in global context. Covers the historical design of communications, objects, and environments as processes of decision-making, adaptation, and innovation. Critically explores design's interaction with politics, economics, technology, and culture across history and the present.