CKCOM integrates synthetic chemistry, theoretical modeling, single-molecule transport experiments, and device engineering to develop organic memristive systems for next-generation information technologies.
We develop organic molecular systems that can operate as memristive elements. By bringing together researchers with complementary expertise — from organic synthesis and theoretical chemistry to single-molecule transport studies and device fabrication — the center aims to create a new class of functional materials for energy-efficient information processing and neuromorphic computing.
Design and synthesis of π-conjugated molecules with controllable charge transport and switching behavior. The molecular systems are engineered to undergo proton-transfer processes leading to distinct electronic energy levels, enabling memristive functionality at the molecular scale.
Experimental investigation of charge transport through individual molecules using STM-based junctions, combined with quantum-chemical modelling to reveal switching mechanisms and guide the design of functional molecular systems.
Implementation of molecular switching elements in electronic device architectures and evaluation of memristive behavior, stability, and performance relevant for information-processing technologies.
The CKCOM center brings together leading researchers in molecular synthesis, theoretical chemistry, and molecular electronics.
Prof. Daniel T. Gryko, founder and director of the CKCOM center and Director of the Institute of Organic Chemistry PAS, leads a research group at the institute. His pioneering discoveries in the synthesis and chemistry of functional fluorescent dyes have significantly advanced modern photonic and molecular electronic materials. His work spans the design of novel chromophores and functional molecular systems with tailored optical and electronic properties.
Dr hab. Cina Foroutan-Nejad leads a theoretical chemistry research group at the Institute of Organic Chemistry PAS. His research focuses on chemical bonding, aromaticity, and molecular electronics, in particular on organic memristors and other molecular components for future computing technologies. His work combines quantum-chemical methods with the development of new functional molecular systems.
Dr. Marek Grzybowski leads a synthetic chemistry research group at the Institute of Organic Chemistry PAS. His research focuses on the design of π-conjugated fluorescent systems, including heteroatom-containing polycyclic arenes, NIR-II emitters, macrocyclic fluorophores, and CPL-active molecules relevant to molecular electronic materials.
CKCOM brings together five complementary research groups that span the entire development pathway of molecular memristors — from theoretical design and molecular synthesis to single-molecule measurements and device fabrication. This interdisciplinary structure enables the systematic transformation of molecular switching phenomena into functional electronic components.
Computational design and theoretical investigation of molecular systems capable of memristive
switching.
Electronic-structure calculations and quantum transport modeling are used to predict charge-transport
properties, understand switching mechanisms, and guide the design of functional molecular architectures.
Design and synthesis of π-conjugated molecular systems computationally predicted to exhibit controllable
switching behavior.
The molecules are engineered to undergo proton-transfer processes that lead to
distinct
electronic states with different energy levels, enabling memristive functionality at the molecular scale.
Spectroscopic investigation of the electronic structure and switching processes in designed molecular
systems.
Optical and spectroscopic methods are used to probe ground and excited states, charge distribution, and
structural dynamics, providing insight into the mechanisms governing molecular switching.
Experimental studies of charge transport through individual molecules using scanning tunneling microscope
(STM) junction techniques.
These experiments directly probe conductance switching at the molecular scale and establish the relationship
between molecular structure and transport properties.
Integration of molecular switching elements into electronic device architectures.
This research direction focuses on translating molecular-scale switching phenomena into functional
memristive devices and evaluating their performance, stability, and scalability for future information
technologies.
