Spin-orbit and modified Becke-Johnson potential effects on the electronic properties of bulk Ge: A density functional theory study

► Assesses reliability of Tran-Blaha potential for describing bulk germanium (Ge). ► Shows this new approach gives results as good as state-of-the-art GW calculations. ► Confirms potential of this approach for studying Ge surfaces and nanostructures. ► Opens the way for fast and accurate calculations of the properties of bulk Ge. ► Provides impetus for applications to other systems needing accurate bandstructures.