Nontechnical description: Bismuth is both an element and a material that has attracted tremendous interest from scientific researchers throughout history. For example, it was the first metal whose Fermi surface was experimentally identified and its study has led to the discovery of quantum (e.g. Shubnikov-de Haas) oscillations. It is also deemed a ‘magic element’ by chemists as it has rare chemical properties allowing it to form compounds with a diverse range of nuclei. A few years ago, the PI’s group made the discovery that ultralow contact resistance can be made to transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD, e.g. MoS2) devices when Bi is deposited on them. Initial structural analysis revealed that Bi formed epitaxial structures on TMD, which was understood as a particular semi-metallic phase of Bi at the time the work was published. Nevertheless, further recent studies indicated that previous understanding might be mistaken, which motivated this research to solve key mysteries and advance scientific knowledge. The findings will lead to discoveries of new 2D forms of materials and enable low power, high-performance devices for both conventional and quantum computing. The project will provide lab experience to undergraduate students and outreach to high school and other students. Technical description: This project will systematically investigate the phase and structures that Bi forms at the 2D material interface under various controlled conditions and will characterize the el