RESEARCH
Our group studies how molecular structure and chemical environment control electronic and chemical function at the nanoscale. We design and synthesize organic, organometallic, and coordination compounds, and use these to form and study single-molecule junctions, self-assembled monolayers, and extended molecular materials. By combining preparative chemistry with electrochemical, scanning probe microscopy, and other physical characterization methods, we seek to understand, for example, how electrical charges move through individual molecules, how molecules in solution react at metal surfaces, how intermolecular interactions control the organization and properties of two-dimensional molecular assemblies, and how molecular-scale electronic properties influence the electrical conductivity of structurally analogous extended materials.
A central goal of our research is to use insights obtained from precisely defined molecular systems to establish principles for designing more complex functional materials and interfaces. Current directions are organized around three broad themes: Molecular-Scale Electronics, Self-Assembled Monolayers, and Molecular Materials.
Our interdisciplinary research program provides group members with opportunities to gain significant experience across both synthetic chemistry (making molecules) and physical characterization (measuring molecular properties). Projects can span the entire process from molecular synthesis to nanoscale measurement and data analysis, or focus more heavily on synthesis or characterization, depending on the scientific question and the researcher’s interests. Our group uses and develops both commercial and custom-built instrumentation, including specialized methods for studying materials down to the single-molecule level.
Molecular-Scale Electronics
Funding
We are grateful for research support from the following organisations:
