Engineering π-Magnetic Nanostructures on Transition Metal Dichalcogenides

ongoing

GAIN-TMD targets the engineering of pi-magnetic nanostructures on transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) via on-surface synthesis (OSS) approaches. Molecular-based qubit systems have immense potential to overcome the problems of decoherence and limited scalability with the present-day solid-state qubits. Realizing π-magnetic molecules and their extended nanostructures through OSS provides the tools to create and control molecular qubits at the atomic level. Among these, atomically precise synthesis of triangulene-based nanostructures is the most successful and has received extensive attention, becoming a model system for studying the exotic electronic and magnetic properties of pi-magnetic nanostructures. However, the limited available chemical reactions and reliance on metal substrates in the current OSS approaches restrict their prototypical studies, raising an urgent demand to develop new reaction strategies and the use of non-metallic substrates for expanding future applications. In this project, I propose engineering pi-magnetic nanostructures on TMDs by designing a new reaction strategy via OSS. By integrating theoretical calculations (Density Functional Theory) and experimental studies (Scanning Probe Microscopy), I will initiate the cycloaddition reaction of alkynyl and methyl groups under mild conditions and reveal the novel properties of synthesized triangulene-based structures on TMDs. These studies will create new opportunities for understanding spin-dependent phenomena in open-shell nanostructures on substrates with versatile electronic properties - facilitating their prototypical studies. This project combines expertise in theoretical computation, surface chemistry, and material physics from the host and the applicant. Moreover, it will allow me to become an independent scientist through the achievement of well-defined scientific objectives and the development of managerial and outreach skills, preparing me for a leading position in academia.