Research Infrastructure

Enabling Atomic and Molecular Scale Sensing

The research infrastructure of the Department Life, Light & Matter (LL&M) provides state-of-the-art experimental platforms to investigate materials and biological systems across multiple length scales. Rather than focusing on individual instruments, LL&M combines complementary technologies that enable atomic and molecular scale sensing through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Our infrastructure is organized into six complementary technology platforms that support research from fundamental science to application.

Atomic Imaging - Electron Microscopy & Nanostructure Analysis

Atomic Imaging - Electron Microscopy & Nanostructure Analysis

Understanding matter begins with visualizing it. This platform enables atomic-resolution imaging and structural characterization of materials, interfaces and biological specimens, providing insights into composition, crystallography and nanoscale architecture. Capabilities: Atomic-resolution electron microscopy; 3D nanostructure analysis; Focused ion beam sample preparation; Correlative microscopy

Molecular Fingerprinting - Mass Spectrometry

Molecular Fingerprinting - Mass Spectrometry

Every molecule carries a unique fingerprint. High-resolution mass spectrometry enables the identification, quantification and spatial characterization of molecules in complex biological and material systems. Capabilities: High-resolution molecular analysis Ion mobility spectrometry Imaging mass spectrometry Proteomics & metabolomics

Structure & Dynamics - Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Structure & Dynamics - Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Understanding how molecules behave. Advanced NMR spectroscopy reveals molecular structure, dynamics and interactions in functional materials and biological systems. Capabilities: Solid-state NMR; Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP); Relaxometry; Molecular dynamics

Functional Optical Imaging - Optical Microscopy & Spectroscopy

Functional Optical Imaging - Optical Microscopy & Spectroscopy

Watching processes as they happen. Optical imaging techniques visualize biological and physical processes with high temporal and spatial resolution. Capabilities: Fluorescence lifetime imaging; Super-resolution microscopy; Ultrafast spectroscopy; Time-resolved imaging

Interfaces & Surface Functionality - Interfaces & Surfaces

Interfaces & Surface Functionality - Interfaces & Surfaces

Many key phenomena occur at interfaces. Scanning probe techniques allow the investigation of mechanical, electrical and chemical properties at the nanoscale. Capabilities: Atomic force microscopy; Scanning ion conductance microscopy; Nanomanipulation; Surface characterization

Materials Performance - Materials Characterization

Materials Performance - Materials Characterization

From structure to function. Complementary characterization techniques reveal thermal, mechanical and structural properties that determine material performance. Capabilities: Thermal analysis; Mechanical characterization; X-ray microscopy; Materials processing

Our Research Philosophy

Atomic and Molecular Scale Sensing is not defined by a single technology. It emerges from the combination of complementary experimental platforms that bridge physics, chemistry, materials science and the life sciences.

By integrating expertise across these disciplines, LL&M creates an environment in which complex scientific questions can be addressed from multiple perspectives—from atomic structure and molecular interactions to functional biological systems.