Quantum-Probe Microscopy
Welcome to our group’s webpage! Our research activities explore the world of fundamental physics and chemistry at the scale of individual atoms and molecules. At the core of our research lies the investigation into the elementary phenomena of magnetism, optics, and electronics at their smallest length scales and dimensions possible, pushing the boundaries of scientific understanding.
Equipped with state-of-the-art low-temperature Scanning-Probe Microscopy techniques, we seek for novel mysteries of nanoscale quantum phenomena on the surfaces of materials. We plan experiments on meticulously designed atomic and molecular nanostructures and develop innovative methods to manipulate their properties with precision.
Our investigations are funded by Basque, Spanish, and European organizations, including the Advanced European Research Council (ERC) grant CONSPIRA, dedicated to the coherent control of spins in graphene nanostructures. We are a dynamic and inclusive international group of scholars, open to incorporating students and doctors from related university degrees for academic research work.
Research Lines
Molecular Magnetism
We use On-Surface Synthesis to fabricate with atomic precision molecular nanographenes. We detect the presence of unpaired electrons in these molecules and manipulate them to study their interactions as candidates for future spintronics and quantum qubits applications.
Magnetism and Superconductivity in Low Dimensions
We study the interaction of magnetism and superconductivity at the atomic scale, by directly depositing single atoms and/or molecules on a superconducting surface. Additionally, we can create atomic and molecular structures and investigate their interactions mitigated by coupling to the superconductor.
Nanoscale Optoelectronics
We study single-molecule emitters using scanning tunneling microscopy-induced light emission combined with noncontact atomic force microscopy. In particular, we want to explore how the emission properties of such molecules can be modified by atomic-scale stimuli and covalent interactions.
Quantum-Probe Microscopy Image gallery
Scanning Probe Microscopes under ultra-high vacuum (UHV) and low temperature (LT) conditions allow us to record beautiful images beyond the nanoscale and probe electronic, optical, and magnetic properties with atomic precision.