Interplay of charge and energy transfer in single molecules

In the pursuit to mimic highly efficient natural processes like photosynthesis in optoelectronic devices, molecule-based architectures are becoming increasingly important in reducing costs and improving energy efficiency.

In these processes, intermolecular charge and energy transfer are intimately linked, however, how exactly intramolecular charge distribution, charge transfer and excited state dynamics interrelate is not fully understood, yet.

Studying these fundamental processes requires tools that can control and probe both the charge state and the excited state of individual and interacting molecules simultaneously with sub-molecular spatial resolution.

So far, the only way to achieve sub-nanometric spatial resolution in optical spectroscopy is to combine it with scanning tunneling microscopy, but this approach does not allow deliberately controlling the charge state of an individual molecule.

CATNIp aims at combining tip-enhanced optical spectroscopy with atomic force microscopy on single molecules as well as multi-molecular complexes adsorbed on multilayer insulating films.

This approach will facilitate studying the interplay of charges and excited states within such systems with atomic resolution and single-electron sensitivity.

In collaboration with organic chemistry as well as theory groups, this will allow addressing fundamental questions such as how excess charges influence molecular excitons, or whether and how it is possible to tailor energy transfer between molecules by introducing localized charges within or nearby the molecular complex.In addition, CATNIp will provide me with extensive training opportunities related to gaining expertise in the field of scanning probe-based optical spectroscopy, managing my own research project, and improving my teaching skills, laying the foundation for a successful career in research.