Tailoring the Photophysics of Atom-Precise Clusters for Biological Imaging and Quantum Technologies

Stacy Copp — copps@uci.edu

Hannu Häkkinen — hannu.j.hakkinen@jyu.fi

Kenneth Knappenberger — klk260@psu.edu

Ligand-protected clusters are bringing inorganic nanochemistry to the molecular scale. Advances in synthetic chemistry now make it possible to produce noble metal and semiconductor clusters with the same atomic precision as molecules, providing the ultimate control over the structure-property relationships of these tiniest of nanoparticles. Perhaps the most exciting property of atom-precise “nanoclusters” is the ability to precisely control their novel photophysics. Nanoclusters can exhibit highly tunable properties that differ significantly from larger nanoparticles of the same compositions, such as high-quantum yield photoluminescence, strong chiroptical transitions, favorable nonlinear optical properties, and spin selectivity. These properties exhibit the promise of tailoring inorganic particles to molecular precision.

The next grand challenge is to translate these unique nanoscale systems to address cross-disciplinary challenges beyond the field of nanocluster chemistry. We envision that nanocluster photophysics hold significant promise for biological imaging and in quantum information technologies. However, to realize this promise, the field must evolve from a fundamental nanochemistry focus to an outward focus beyond traditional disciplines. This workshop is motivated by the need to bring together an interdisciplinary group of researchers that spans nanocluster synthesis, computational modeling, photophysical characterization, biological imaging, and quantum information. Attendees will share their unique perspectives and build a cross-disciplinary vision for guiding the next phase of nanocluster research with an eye towards applications.

We wish to ensure an intimate workshop setting, with no more than 20 to 25 participants. If you are interested in attending but have not received an invitation, please contact the workshop organizer before registering.

Sessions typically run mornings and late afternoons, leaving mid-day free for informal collaboration.

Travel to Telluride can be expensive; please assess your own potential travel costs before registering.

Please book your travel plans! The Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) is the most reliable and convenient airport for Telluride.

Telluride Science can provide lodging starting as low as $215/night during off-peak weeks and as low as $250/night during peak-season at the Mountainside Inn. These affordable lodging options are limited and available first-come, first-serve. To encourage participants to secure affordable lodging, we offer a $100 discount on lodging provided through Telluride Science that is secured before the Early Bird deadline. Additionally, we work with many lodging providers in Telluride and Mountain Village to offer discounts between 10-15% off your total lodging balance. Additional information provided with registration.

If you have more questions about lodging, reach out to Sara at sara@telluridescience.org.

Registrations may be refunded less a $25 cancellation fee. If cancelled before the lodging cancellation deadline, lodging payments are refundable less a $100 cancellation fee. It is each participant's responsibility to confirm and understand their own lodging cancellation deadline. Travel insurance is highly recommended.