The Governors of the University of Alberta

Published purpose

Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) is a sensitive form of microscopy that allows researchers to image fundamental properties of matter at the ultimate scale of single atoms or molecules. Recently, the conception of atomically precise manufacturing (APM) techniques permits STMs to fabricate devices atom-by-atom which have properties that cannot be replicated using standard nanoelectronic practices. Similarly, the introduction of radio frequency (RF) manipulation has allowed STMs to explore properties of mater at even smaller length scales. By probing individual atoms or molecules with RF signals in a magnetic field, techniques such as electron spin resonance (ESR) can be realized. While results of APM and ESR have been reported in recent academic journals, never have they been combined to enable a platform for rapid fabrication, characterization, and manipulation of novel atomic structures. The project will conceive and demonstrate novel RF-enabled STM techniques for improved quantum sensing and control of atom-based devices.