Functional Nanomaterials & Surfaces (FunNanoSurf)

At FunNanoSurf we are based on the creation of molecular-based devices using a family of molecules called curcuminoids (CCMoids) and related systems. Our strategy lies in the use of CCMoids as molecular platforms, and together with their design, the implementation of different immobilization strategies of these molecules, allows us to create smart substrates for biomedical, electronic and sensing applications. On the other hand, the group is also focus in the preparation of biommiteic materials based on a controllable functionzalization of surfaces for interaction with biological systems.

During 2024, this approach has been reflected in the following activities:

• -Cardona-Lamarca, T. Y Baum, R. Zaffino, D. Herrera, R. Pfattner, S. Gómez-Coca, E. Ruiz, A. González-Campo, H. S.-J. van der Zant, N. Aliaga-Alcalde, 2024. “Experimental and theoretical studies of the electronic transport of an extended curcuminoid in graphene nano-junctions”. Chemical Science, 15(39), 16347-16354
• “Boosting responsive substrates based on ASYmmetric CURCUMINOIDS: synthesis and deposition, interface and ACTivity studies (PID2023-151929NB-I00, ASYCCMoidsACT)” MICIU
• “Launch of a universal sublimation technology for molecular transfer on SUBstrates (101138186, smolSUB)” European Research Council, HORIZON.
• Keynote speaker and Invited talks, by ICREA Prof. Núria Aliaga-Alcalde, at Sensors 2024, the 245^th ECS Meeting and II Workshop on Advanced quantum phenomena in 2D and carbon-based materials.
• “El País” Newspaper interview by Dr. Arántzazu González Campo, “Stem cells and high technology: two Spanish labs face the challenge of creating artificial blood”
• Two defended theses in the group by Dr. Teresa Cardona Lamarca (“Curcuminoid-based materials toward their use as active components in three-terminal devices”, 16^th February 2024) and Dr. Raquel Gimeno-Muñoz (“Design of new T-shaped Curcuminoid systems and deposition studies for the creation of sensors”, 26^th November 2024)
• Núria has been member evaluator of R&C 2024 as well as of the “la Caixa” Postgraduate Scholarships abroad Junior 2024.