FERROSCO · Optical Control of Ferroic Properties in Spin Crossover Materials

Advanced materials for ferroelectric and multiferroic applications such as ferroelectric and multiferroic RAM are critical in the goal towards energy-efficient memory for the future of computing. The optical control of ferroic properties could offer a more efficient route towards this goal by way of optoelectronic devices. A suitable platform could be found in the spin crossover (SCO) family of molecular switches, where the spin state can be manipulated using temperature or light. Coupling of SCO to ferroelectric and/or ferroelastic symmetry-breaking provides a route towards SCO based multiferroics. This project, FERROSCO, will assess the potential for light-modulated SCO-ferroic coupling via light-induced excited spin state trapping (LIESST) as a new route towards low-energy, optically addressable functional materials. This project will leverage interdisciplinary knowledge of both chemistry and physics, and a mixture of experimental (e.g. crystallography, magnetic measurements, infrared spectroscopy) and theoretical modelling to address the challenges in the development SCO based multiferroics. This fellowship will combine my expertise in the synthesis, and structural and spectroscopic characterisation of molecular SCO systems with that of Prof. Eric Collet at the Université de Rennes, a world-leader in the experimental and theoretical study of symmetry-breaking phase transitions in SCO. This project will significantly enhance my academic profile through broadening my area of expertise through training in research and transferable skills, and will significantly enhance my career development towards my goal of establishing my own independent research group. It will also reinforce Europe’s position as a leader in the development and understanding of advanced functional materials, potentially opening up pathways to further collaborative research and towards optoelectronic product development.