IAMS RESEARCH AREAS
Institute of Atomic and Molecular Sciences (IAMS) research focuses on the atomic and molecular levels, exploring the physical, chemical, and biological phenomena of nature through integrated theory and experimentation.
While the Institute's initial focus was centered on chemical reaction dynamics, its scope has since evolved to encompass a broad range of energy-matter interactions. The research faculty are currently organized into four Research Groups:
Chemical Dynamics & Molecular Spectroscopy
The Chemical Dynamics & Molecular Spectroscopy group began introducing advanced research methodologies and technologies such as laser spectroscopy, reaction dynamics, and molecular beam scattering, opening up new directions for related research in Taiwan starting more than 30 years ago. This group dedicated itself to the study of the photodissociation and chemical reactions of small molecules, with particular emphasis on the generation and characterization of transient species (e.g., free radicals and reaction intermediates). Particularly in the field of crossed molecular beam research, the group constructed world leading crossed molecular beam scattering apparatus equipped with a high-resolution three-dimensional ion velocity-map imaging detector and an ultra-low background universal mass-spectrometric detector, enabling studies that would otherwise be difficult to perform. The primary research areas encompass molecular spectroscopy, atmospheric chemistry, and glycan mass spectrometry.
Atomic Molecular & Optical Physics
The research areas of this group include: 1. Quantum optics and quantum information science based on cold atoms, atom-nanophotonics, and solid-state spins in diamond; 2. Quantum computation and simulation based on neutral atoms with Rydberg interactions; 3. Atomic physics involving quantum metrology, continuous atom lasers, and continuous optical clocks; 4. Quantum control of atoms in atom interferometers and optical lattices; 5. Theoretical and experimental studies of ultracold atomic gases, including superfluidity, synthetic gauge fields, and spinor condensates.
Advanced Materials Science & Technology
This group currently focus on the development of two-dimensional (2D) materials, as well as novel materials for energy-related applications, such as thermoelectric materials. Through fundamental studies and advanced characterization techniques, the group seeks to uncover their microscopic mechanisms and explore emerging physical phenomena. Another major research direction is the use of theoretical and computational approaches to investigate the structures of molecules and materials, the electronic properties of novel materials, spectroscopy, light–matter interactions, quantum electrodynamics, and computational methodologies, as well as to provide theoretical and computational results that support the analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
Biophysics & Bioanalytical Technology
This group aims to advance development through interdisciplinary expertise spanning physics, chemistry, and biology, and is committed to developing innovative tools and methodologies. Specific goals include: (1) Investigating the fundamental nature of biological phenomena by integrating theory and experiment, grounded in physics and chemistry; and (2) Utilizing optics, microscopy, and nanoscience to develop next generation tools for the in-depth study of biological systems at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels.
Although the research faculty members are affiliated with specific groups, they are encouraged to explore and participate in themes across other groups, fostering a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration and exchange.
RESEARCH THEMES
Advanced Materials Science & Technology
- PIs: K.H.Chen, M.Y.Chou, Y.L.Wang, C.M.Wei, S-y Chen, Y.P. Hsieh, L.Y.Hsu, Y.H.Chan, W.H.Wang, C.T.Chiang, J.Shiue
Atomospheric Science & Molecular Spetroscopy
- PIs: J.L.Kuo, Jim J-M Lin, C.K. Ni, P.L.Luo
Biophysics & Bioanalytical Technology
Quantum Science & Technology
Theoretical & Computational Sciences