Dynamic redox switching in molecular junctions: Intelligent interfaces for neuromorphic computing (C07*)

• Subject Area: Organic Molecular Chemistry - Synthesis and Characterisation
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 433682494

In this project, we aim to implement neuromorphic architectures at the molecular level by self-assembly of redox-active switches in molecular conductance junctions. Coupling of multiple processes with different kinetics can induce feedback pathways and dynamic switching, leading to hysteretic negative differential resistance, synaptic behaviour, and Pavlovian learning. Several challenges are addressed in this project, including scalable and robust formation of molecular conductance junctions, chemical diversification and tuning of dynamic switching properties, exploration of more diverse feedback mechanisms and different learning/adaptation paradigms, and development of rational design principles and theoretical frameworks.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1459: Intelligent Matter – From responsive to adaptive nanosystems
• International Connection: Netherlands
• Applicant Institution: Universität Münster
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Frank Glorius, since 1/2025; Dr. Robert Hein, since 1/2025; Professor Dr. Christian Nijhuis, since 1/2025