Optical Control in a Single-molecule Electrochemical Sensor

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Single-molecule detection technique provides a powerful platform for scientists to observe biomolecular function that is difficult to sense using conventional techniques. Quantum tunnelling, combined with biosensors has raised broad interests recently due to its advantages in high spatial resolution and sensitivity. However, it is still challenging to controllably fabricate a tunnelling device with ease and low cost. This project aims to develop a novel method for fabrication of tunnelling device by electrochemical feedback-control deposition of platinum. Such electrochemically fabricated tunnelling junctions will likely have extended long term stability and will be ideally suited for continuous monitoring in complex samples. Single-molecule techniques have attracted great attention because of their ability to conduct studies of molecules at the nanoscale. Tunnelling sensors are a class of single-molecule detection techniques that possess extremely high spatial resolution and sensitivity. However, an obstacle during detection is the poor temporal resolution. One promising route to overcome this challenge is to combine ultrafast spectroscopy with tunnelling detection. In this project, the combination of electrochemical deposition and electromigration breakdown is applied to fabricate a new type of tunnelling sensors that are based on dual-barrel nanopipettes.