PME Special Quantum Seminar- Christian Oswood

Quantum sensing uses the incredible sensitivity of quantum systems to detect minuscule perturbations in a sensor’s environment. The Freedman Lab is interested in using the unpaired electrons in transition metal complexes for applications in quantum information science, as optically addressable quantum bits (qubits), nodes for quantum communication, or as tunable sensors for a variety of phenomena. With regards to sensing applications, molecular systems possess unique properties that make them well-suited for chemical sensing. The atomistic control inherent in molecular synthesis lets us tune sensor scaffolds to selectively engage specific classes of analytes and define a precise relationship between the sensor and analyte to tune interaction strengths and optimize sensitivity. This seminar will discuss ongoing work to develop molecular sensors for detection and identification of spin-bearing metal ions. Two different environmentally stable V(IV)-based sensors will be discussed, optimized for either sensing unpaired electron spins of transition metal analytes or nuclear spins of diamagnetic metal ions.

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