Project description
Theory and experiment show how quantum effects manifest in molecules
One of the greatest mysteries in quantum physics is the wave–particle duality: every particle has properties of both a wave and a particle. Over the last ten years, research has demonstrated that molecules manifest both wave and particle aspects at room temperature with the observation of quantum interference. The aim of the EU-funded QLIMIT project is to use both theory and experiment to probe the limits of these interference effects. These limits will be challenged in three directions: using a larger number of molecules and studying the interactions between them; using interference effects to design molecules that act as components in a quantum computer; and using interference in vibrational energy transfer within single molecules with the ultimate aim of modulating product ratios in organic reactions.
Objective
Over the last ten years, there has been a growing interest in quantum interference effects observed in molecules. Remarkably, given their fragility in mesoscopic physics, molecular quantum interference effects can be readily observed at room temperature in solution. This robustness comes from the extremely small size of the molecular components (1-2nm) and thereby the small dimensions over which phase coherence is required. The aim of this project is to challenge the limits of molecular quantum interference effects delivering clear predictions of how to realise these effects in three challenge areas. 1. Beyond single molecules: intermolecular interference effects. This work package will investigate interference effects between molecules and in monolayers to find systems where intermolecular interference effects emerge with a long-term view to materials. 2. Beyond classical electronics: Quantum gates Given that interference effects are an indication of phase coherence being maintained across the molecule, we should be able to exploit the quantum nature of the system for more than simply suppressing current. Proposals exist in the literature for realising a quantum computer through scattering, so this work package will investigate use the interference effects in molecules to suggest candidate systems for this type of quantum computer. 3. Beyond electron transport: Controlling vibrational energy redistribution This work package will focus on how to use interference effects to control vibrational energy redistribution within single molecules with an aim of using this to modulate product ratios in organic reactions. This project takes ideas that have come out of molecular electronics and tests the scope of their application in three neighbouring areas: supramolecular chemistry, quantum computing and organic chemistry. This project takes a first step in these directions, and success in any work package has the possibility to open a whole new field of research.
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
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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H2020-EU.1.1. - EXCELLENT SCIENCE - 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.
ERC-COG - Consolidator Grant
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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-2019-COG
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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.
1165 KOBENHAVN
Denmark
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.