GRK 2536:  Hybrid structures on the nanoscale: Chemical concepts to prepare heterogeneous nanostructures with anisotropic material properties (NANOHYBRID)

• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry ; Chemical Solid State and Surface Research ; Polymer Research
• Term: from 2020 to 2024
• Website: Homepage
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 408076438

The goal of the Graduiertenkolleg is to achieve specific anisotropic material properties based on chemically prepared nanostructures, and to explore the emerging material properties by specific physical investigations in combination with theoretical modelling. Within this strongly interdisciplinary approach, we will develop innovative methods to tailor the shape and function of nanoscopic systems by using modern concepts of inorganic, macromolecular and theoretical chemistry. In addition, we will develop techniques for macroscopic assemblies and oriented arrangements of the nanostructures to demonstrate the applicability of the respective material properties to macroscopic functional devices. Key elements of the research projects are semiconducting and metallic building blocks, which are combined to anisotropic heterostructures. In parallel, the hybrid structures will be bridged by functional molecules to form 2-dimensional networks, or will be arranged within 3-dimensional polymeric or inorganic matrices. The resulting anisotropic optical and electrical properties are highly relevant for applications in displays or sensor technologies. An essential characteristic of the research and training program is the strong interaction between experiment and theory, which will lead to a deep understanding of the collective properties of inorganic hybrid structures. This constitutes an important scientific contribution to the long-term vision of an integrated chemical nanotechnology. The research-driven training concept of the Graduiertenkolleg offers ideal conditions for a well-structured PhD program in the field of nanoscience. The direct combination of chemical synthesis and physical investigation together with theoretical modelling of material properties with high applicability will lead to a comprehensive insight into the interdisciplinary field of nanoscience and nanotechnology. The group of project leaders consisting of chemists and physicists is already tightly intertwined within the ongoing graduate program “nanoscience” at the University of Hamburg.

• DFG Programme: Research Training Groups
• Applicant Institution: Universität Hamburg
• Spokesperson: Professor Dr. Alf Mews
• Participating Researchers: Professor Dr. Volker Abetz; Professor Dr. Tobias Beck; Professor Dr. Gabriel Bester; Professor Dr. Michael Fröba; Professorin Dr. Carmen Herrmann; Professor Dr. Axel Jacobi von Wangelin; Privatdozent Dr. Tobias Kipp; Professorin Dr. Dorota Koziej; Professor Dr. Holger Lange; Professor Dr. Simone Mascotto; Professor Dr. Wolfgang Parak; Dr. Tobias Vossmeyer; Professor Dr. Horst Weller