Acknowledgment

First I would like to thank my supervisor Prof. Hajdin Ceric for keeping my work interesting and challenging during the entire course of the doctoral process. He gave me the opportunity to join the Institute for Microelectronics and provided me with the financial support to attend several scientific conferences and technical meetings all over the world.

I am also very glad that Prof. Kirsten Weide-Zaage has been part of my examination committee.

I would like to thank all the colleagues of the institute for easing the working days with their hilarity as well as for their cooperation on my work. Wolfhard helped me with everything and everyone during my Austrian life and I owe a big gratitude to him. Lado impressed me for his willingness to help me either as a proof-reader or as a spontaneous technical advisor, as well as a good confidant. Thomas surprised me with his sense of humor and colored my days in the cheerful office. Tassem introduced me to the British culture and always showed a positive feeling, in particular out of the office. I thank Gerhard for the interesting face-to-face discussions at his desk. I also have the pleasure to acknowledge Stas for the good company during project meetings and Markus for sharing some breaks with me.

Additionally, I am grateful to all the people I met in Vienna during the last three years. In particular the Italian friends which have made my Viennese life easier. You will remain in my heart forever. What is clear for me is that this experience has changed my life and Vienna has an important impact on it. Thanks Vienna!

I would like to thank all my friends for their true friendship and intense assistance even if I live abroad. A special thanks goes to Santo, who is something more than a colleague. We have already been friends in Milan and he has suggested that I join the institute in 2014. His presence in Vienna made it seem like home. Last but not least, I want to thank Silvia, the person who knows me better than anyone.

Finally, an essential thanks to my parents and sister for the continuous support and encouragement during my entire life. You are always by my side and I truly appreciate that. Grazie di cuore!