Objective
Programming matter on the scale of individual atoms and molecules is the Holy Grail of nanotechnology. Chemical reactions—whether beneficial, like drug synthesis, or harmful, like DNA strand breakage—are governed by charge transfer processes at the single-molecule level. Scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) offers a unique platform to initiate and probe these reactions in atomically controlled environments. Yet, even under ideal conditions, control over reaction outcomes remains limited to setting initial excitation parameters, leaving the rest to probabilistic evolution.
LUMIN aims to achieve a step-change in the precision of reaction control precision by accessing and influencing the molecular dynamics as they unfold. Through a combination of STM, photon correlation techniques, and high-throughput automation, the project will probe all stages of the DIET (dynamics induced by electronic transitions) cycle. This includes tuning excited-state lifetimes and developing new experimental handles to steer reaction pathways beyond initial excitation.
To prove the principle, I will map the energy landscape and dynamics of a test range of reactions with sub-molecular resolution. Optical techniques will be used to interrogate excited states and extract ultrafast timing information. Reaction outcomes will be benchmarked against quantum chemical simulations to assess the predictive power of theory.
LUMIN will create a new paradigm for manipulating molecular reactions, unlocking deterministic control over processes previously governed by chance. This versatile approach will deepen our fundamental understanding of chemical dynamics and pave the way for applications in quantum technologies, catalysis, and molecular electronics.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2026-STG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
BA2 7AY BATH
United Kingdom
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.