01
Research question
Daniel’s poster, “The Theory of the Scanning Thermopower Microscope (SThM),” examined scanning thermopower in relation to quantum transport across para and meta transmission nodes and the information that a temperature differential can reveal.
The proposed utility was imaging quantum-interference behavior at surfaces through thermoelectric response rather than relying only on conventional topographic signals.
02
Context and scope
Daniel conducted the student research project with Dr. Justin P. Bergfield at Illinois State University, developing a theoretical framework rather than a commercial instrument.
The topic connects to Daniel’s continuing interests in scientific computing, signal interpretation, exceptional-point and resonant systems, photonics, materials, and experimental instrumentation.
03
Reasoning across thermal and electronic signals
Thermopower measurements relate an electrical response to a temperature difference. At molecular scales, transmission pathways and interference can change that response, making interpretation a problem that crosses physics, computation, instrument behavior, and the limits of a measurement model.
The analysis joins governing equations, thermal assumptions, electronic transmission, and the interpretation of surface signals. That systems view continues in Daniel’s work on resonant behavior, photonics, materials, and scientific instrumentation.