Combined tunneling and Raman spectroscopy in nanogaps for single molecule analysis.

The goal of this research project is to investigate combined optical and electrical techniques for a direct transduction of molecular information of single bases embedded in DNA strands. We will focus on using nanogap devices to combine surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), a vibrational spectroscopic technique, with electrical tunneling measurements. As single molecule sensitivity has been demonstrated for both techniques, their combination in a single device will provide complementary molecular information. In first instance, we will focus on the design and fabrication process. We aim at shaping the nanogap appropriately to optimize both the optical field enhancement and the localization of the tunneling current. In second instance, we will investigate the Raman and tunneling approach separately, both in dry and liquid environments. We will mainly investigate the devices response upon passage of single molecules. Specifically for DNA we will develop strategies to control and slow down the passage of DNA. Finally, we will study the combination of the two measurement techniques, gathering and treating the acquired data to yield necessary information for single molecule analysis.

Keywords:DNA, Single molecule, Nanopore, Tunneling, Raman spectroscopy

Disciplines:Other engineering and technology