Institute for Molecular Science

The wave nature of matter is at the heart of the quantum world. Quantum mechanics was founded more than 70 years ago, and our modern civilized societies are deeply indebted to inventions made possible by quantum mechanics such as computers and CD players. The quantum world is, however, not yet fully understood, and considerable potential for its application still exists. We are trying to control completely the wave nature of atoms and molecules with light to better understand the quantum world. Improved understanding of the quantum world will result in the development of novel quantum technologies such as single-molecule information processing and subnanoscale bond-selective chemistry.