Science Thrusts

Quantum Materials Systems

Understanding and controlling quantum effects of nanoscale materials and their integration into systems spanning multiple length scales.

Key integration science challenges include: 1) elucidating and utilizing interactions between quantum systems and the environment at multiple scales (e.g. quantum sensed nuclear spin resonance); 2) preparing quantum materials in a precisely controlled manner; 3) discovering emergent phenomena in quantum materials under various excitations; and 4) integrating quantum materials in solid-state architectures for application at the macroscale.

In-Situ Characterization and Nanomechanics

Developing and implementing world-leading capabilities to study the dynamic response of materials and nanosystems to mechanical, electrical, or other stimuli.

Key integration science challenges include: 1) how defects and crystal distortions alter the electronic and/or mechanical properties in nanostructured materials; 2) how coupling between electronic and mechanical behaviors affect the functionalities of integrated nanostructures; and 3) How we understand and control energy transfer across interfaces and over multiple length scales.

Nanophotonics and Optical Nanomaterials

Discovery, synthesis, and integration of optical nanomaterials; exploitation and characterization of emergent or collective electromagnetic and quantum optical phenomena, from nanophotonics and metamaterials to quantum coherence.

Key integration science challenges include: 1) advancing synthesis and integration to access materials and structures predicted to afford a desired functionality; 2) moving beyond quantum-size control to multiscale interaction control for collective and emergent electromagnetic phenomena; 3) realizing multifunctional behavior in hybrid photonic nanostructures and metasurfaces; and 4) developing theoretical and characterization techniques at extreme length and time scales to address hierarchical coupling, transport and transfer phenomena.

Soft, Biological, and Composite Nanomaterials

Synthesis, assembly, and characterization of soft, biomolecular, and composite nanomaterials that display emergent functionality.

Key integration science challenges include: 1) designing interfaces and controlling their interactions across multiple dimensions, length- and time-scales; 2) self- and active-assembly of soft and hybrid nanostructured materials; 3) developing new characterization tools and optical probes for detection and imaging; and 4) theory and simulation to understand and predict the behavior of hierarchical structure and dynamics of soft matter systems.