Spinristor and memristor: molecular switches with added functions
Theoretical Bioinorganic Chemistry
Abstract
With the miniaturization of electronic components nearing its limits, single-molecule components hold great potential as a solution. Our proposal aims to address a gap in molecular electronics by developing switchable spin-filters. We will begin with an in-depth in silico survey to identify experimentally viable molecules, with a focus on introducing spin-filtering via open-shell metal atoms, chirality, or both. Our initial targets include metalloporphyrins, helicenes, short peptides, and endohedral fullerenes. By combining spin-filtering with field-induced spin crossover and isomerization, we can control the transmission properties of these molecules. We will construct a library of in silico characterized systems and use electronic structure to gain a fundamental understanding of their function. The best compounds will be synthesized and characterized experimentally to guide further experiments and provide feedback for our rational design. Ultimately, we envision applications in data storage and in-memory computing.
Field of study: Molecular chemical physics and sensorics
Universities
PhD students must be enrolled in a partner university and will be employed by the IOCB Prague at the same time (part-time or full time), which results in a competitive salary (a scholarship from the university + a salary from the IOCB). Each university has its own process, terms, and deadlines for PhD applications, which is separate from the IOCB recruitment process. You may discuss the details with the respective PI.
How to apply
Please return to the PhD projects at IOCB Prague – Call for Applications 2025 page and follow the instructions.