Dr. Sibusiso Nqayi

Postdoctoral fellow
Name: Sibusiso Nqayi
Location: C1 Lab, Auckland Park Kingsway Campus
Physics Postdoctoral Fellows, Postdoctoral Fellows / Research Staff  Staff Members

Contact Details:

Email: snqayi@uj.ac.za

About Dr. Sibusiso Nqayi

Research Profile: Investigating Electronic and Magnetic Properties of Rare Earth Based Compounds

As an experimental nano-scientist, my primary research focus lies in the investigation of the electronic and magnetic properties of rare earth-based compounds. These compounds exhibit unique characteristics owing to the presence of rare earth elements, making them intriguing candidates for various technological applications such as spintronics, magnetic data storage, and quantum computing. In addition to experimental methods, I integrate computational techniques, particularly Molecular Dynamics (MD) and Density Functional Theory (DFT), to complement and enhance my experimental findings. These computational approaches allow for a deeper understanding of the underlying physics governing the electronic and magnetic properties of rare earth-based compounds.

My overarching research goals includes unravelling the intricate interplay between electronic, magnetic, and structural properties of rare earth-based compounds at the nanoscale. Exploring novel phenomena such as spin polarization, spin-orbit coupling, and magnetic anisotropy in these materials. While developing strategies to tailor and optimize the electronic and magnetic functionalities of rare earth compounds for potential applications in next-generation electronic and spintronic devices. In essence, my research endeavours aim to contribute to the fundamental understanding and practical utilization of rare earth-based compounds in cutting-edge nanoelectronic and spintronic technologies.

Publications: 

1. Weak ferromagnetic interactions of Sm2Fe2O5+ δ induced by coupling of the crystal and related lattice vibrations
   doi.org/10.1016/j.physb.2024.416501
2. Computational study of the effect of size and surface functionalization on Au nanoparticles on their stability to study biological descriptors
   doi.org/10.1016/j.bbagen.2022.130170
3. Recent developments in computational and experimental studies of physicochemical properties of Au and Ag nanostructures on cellular uptake and nanostructure toxicity
   doi.org/10.1007/s00894-022-05367-6
4. Investigating the optical properties of gold decorated CdS nanoparticles via physical techniques
   DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.20737.38240

Publication Link:

ORCID