Luminiscence and vibrations of molecular circuits

Functional blocks made of single molecules are the ultimate frontier in miniaturization of devices, and can potentially revolutionize nanotechnologies. Particularly interesting classes of single-molecular devices can transduce electrical energy into light or mechanical action, by a geometrical or dynamic response to external electric field or electron injection. The project aims on fundamental laws governing such model single-molecular circuits, combining a state-of-the-art experimental methodology and an advanced theoretical framework. We will investigate the electronic, optical and mechanic properties by a cryogenic scanning probe microscope capable of tip-enhanced optical spectroscopy, atomic force and electron current detection, all with submolecular resolution and supported by atomistic simulations. This unprecedented combination will enable precise construction of proof-of-concept single-molecular devices and characterization of their luminiscent, vibronic and electron-transmission properties.