Structural and Environmental Effects on the Electronic Properties of Complex Molecular Systems as Probed by Stark Spectroscopy

Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh PA

Investigators

Abstract

Linda Peteanu of the Carnegie Mellon University is supported by the Theoretical and Computational Chemistry Program to study complex condensed molecular systems using Stark spectroscopy. The ability to engineer complex molecular systems such as polymers, dye-polymer complexes and aggregates to specific applications depends on a thorough understanding of how their electronic properties are impacted by their structure and the surrounding media. Stark spectroscopy can address the magnitude of electronic changes in these systems. The PI will continue investigations into these issues by studying cyanine dyes complexed with DNA as well as conducting polymers. Moreover, she will add single molecule techniques to overcome problems of heterogeneity in the Stark measurements. Optical responses of complex media such as dye aggregates and conducting polymers are important to understand for advances in sensors and nanotechnology.