On-chip bio-opto-mechanics: Controlling phonon-assisted processes in single biomolecules
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Glasgow
Department Name: College of Science and Engineering
Abstract
Photosynthetic organisms rely on nano-scale molecular complexes to absorb sunlight and transfer the associated electronic excitation energy to initiate the chemical energy conversion steps that sustain life processes on Earth. Theoretical and experimental studies suggest that such light-harvesting complexes exploit, in a versatile manner, different molecular vibrations to optimise energy transfer processes. But how exactly vibrations affect the efficiency, directionality, and quantum properties of energy dynamics in photosynthetic units is yet to be fully understood. To gain this understanding it is necessary to develop scientific approaches that allow precise control and enhancement or suppression of specific vibrational motions of individual molecules.
In this project, we will investigate, both theoretically and experimentally, the role of mechanical vibrations in the way bio-molecules transfer the energy that they can absorb from sunlight or, in our experiments, excitation laser sources.
By investigating bio-molecules embedded within nano-fabricated devices that can control mechanical vibrations, we will shine new light onto the microscopic processes that control energy dynamics at the molecular scale. The knowledge created in this project will be the foundation to realise novel energy capture and transfer devices by taking advantage of our ability to reverse engineering natural processes.
In this project, we will investigate, both theoretically and experimentally, the role of mechanical vibrations in the way bio-molecules transfer the energy that they can absorb from sunlight or, in our experiments, excitation laser sources.
By investigating bio-molecules embedded within nano-fabricated devices that can control mechanical vibrations, we will shine new light onto the microscopic processes that control energy dynamics at the molecular scale. The knowledge created in this project will be the foundation to realise novel energy capture and transfer devices by taking advantage of our ability to reverse engineering natural processes.
Publications
Nation C
(2023)
Multilevel Purcell effect and the impact of vibrational modes in molecular quantum optics
in Physical Review A
Description | We have been investigating how vibrations can contribute to energy transport under light illumination in photosynthetic molecules. Theoretical advances have shown the feasibility of experimental approaches aimed at probing the role of vibrations in these processes. |
Exploitation Route | Our investigations will provide new frameworks for experimentally accessing and controlling energy recombination and energy transfer mechanisms in biomolecules, processes that could be reverse-engineered in devices. |
Sectors | Education Electronics Energy Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology |
Description | Postdoctoral researchers are (and will be) trained through this project. |
Geographic Reach | National |
Policy Influence Type | Influenced training of practitioners or researchers |
Impact | Training of postdoctoral researchers. |
Title | Time-resolved and steady-state photoluminescence spectroscopy |
Description | Optical excitation of biomolecules to study emission spectra, emission dynamics and photon emission statistics. |
Type Of Material | Biological samples |
Year Produced | 2015 |
Provided To Others? | Yes |
Impact | Highly cited research paper, several groups are now using the technique that we have developed. |
URL | https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms8833 |
Description | Collaboration with theoretical group at University College London |
Organisation | University College London |
Country | United Kingdom |
Sector | Academic/University |
PI Contribution | My research group focuses on the experimental side of the project (nanofabrication, optical characterisation) of the devices needed to test the hypothesis put forward in the proposal. |
Collaborator Contribution | The collaborators focus on the simulations and theoretical understanding of the project. |
Impact | The collaboration joins together theoretical physics and engineering. The outcomes have been scientific discussions, development of new ideas, writing of joint proposals and award of new grants. |
Start Year | 2017 |