New physics and devices based on self-assembled semiconductor quantum dots

Self-assembled semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) exhibit fully quantized electronic states and high radiative efficiencies. This makes them highly suitable both for fundamental physics studies of zero-dimensionality, atomic-like semiconductor systems and applications in a range of novel electro-optical devices. This review discusses recent important advances in the study and application of semiconductor QDs. Using a wide range of optical spectroscopy techniques, it is possible to obtain a detailed understanding of the electronic structure and dynamical carrier processes. Such an understanding is required for the implementation of a wide range of QD-based devices.