A method for forming a semiconductor structure includes the following steps. A starting semiconductor substrate having a top-side surface and a back-side surface is provided. A recess is formed in the starting semiconductor substrate through the top-side of the starting semiconductor substrate. A semiconductor material is formed in the recess. A vertically conducting device is formed in and over the semiconductor material, where the starting semiconductor substrate serves as a terminal of the vertically conducting device. A non-recessed portion of the starting semiconductor substrate allows a top-side contact to be made to portions of the starting semiconductor substrate extending beneath the semiconductor material.