This proposal leverages the pinpoint positioning (sub-nm scale) of dye molecules into spatially precise aggregates through DNA conjugation. Building on our recent breakthrough capability of achieving distinct orientational control of aggregates provides us the opportunity to create molecular aggregates with optoelectronic functionality. We can now tailor electronic coupling and dipole orientations, two key parameters for controlling excitonic based systems – e.g. optical THz switching rate logic gates. We propose to gain an understanding of how to use DNA scaffolds to shape the photophysical properties of molecular aggregates to enable molecular circuitry. Importantly, we will transition these systems from solution to surfaces, a key step for preparing molecular aggregates for applications and furthering the TRL level. This parallel thrust will aim to resolve the basic science of precision deposition needed to maintain aggregate integrity upon deposition and understand system-environment interactions that impact relaxation processes. Success in this project builds on DNA nanotechnology to provide a proof-of-concept demonstration of optoelectronic circuits, a technology with promise for low power and ultrafast optical signal processing.

References:

1) A. A. Meares, S. R. Ansteatt, S. A. Díaz, et al, "Control of Indodicarbocyanine Dimer Geometry Using Variable-Length Linkers to DNA Scaffolds", Journal of the American Chemical Society, 2025, 147, 28651-28664.

2) S. A. Díaz, G. Pascual, L. K. Patten, et al, "Towards control of excitonic coupling in DNA-templated Cy5 aggregates: the principal role of chemical substituent hydrophobicity and steric interactions", Nanoscale, 2023, 15, 3284-3299.

3) M. Chiriboga, S. A. Díaz, D. Mathur, et al, "Understanding Self-Assembled Pseudoisocyanine Dye Aggregates in DNA Nanostructures and Their Exciton Relay Transfer Capabilities", Journal of Physical Chemistry B, 2022, 126, 110-122.

DNA; Photonics; Nanoparticles; Molecular aggregates; Dye and nucleotide chemistry

citizenship

Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

level

Open to Postdoctoral applicants

Additional Benefits

relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.