Studies on the morphology, optical, composition and electronic properties of zinc oxide nanorods/metal nanocomposite One dimensional zinc oxide (Zno) nanorods (NRS) were synthesized and subsequent coated with an iron (Fe) thin film to create a metallic/semiconductor junction. The morphology, surface composition, electronic properties and defects in pristine and the Fe-coated material were studied by different techniques. The deposited Fe atoms were found to interact with intrinsic defects of the pristine ZnO NRs and lead to enhancement of UV and visible PL emissions. In addition femtosecond spectroscopy results provide information on the reduction of electron/hole recombination due to the junction formation. This behaviour of the Fe/ZnO nanocomposite can be exploited for many applications such as photocatalysis and photovoltaic cells.