Summary
This network joins leading European laboratories at the forefront of experimental studies of small physical, biophysical and chemical devices, to the theoretical groups that have pioneered recent spectacular advances in the nonequilibrium physics of small systems. Such a unique cross-disciplinary network will push forward the integration between theory, experiment and application, allow to solve technical problems specific for the small scale and inspire new methods of design, manipulation and operation. We will further develop and apply the thermodynamics and statistical mechanics of small nonequilibrium devices, evaluate the role of stochasticity and nonlinearity and the implementation of optimization techniques, and develop new calculational approaches for small driven systems. Important inspiration will also be drawn from the incorporation of groups working on the physical understanding of biological machines like molecular motors and other "devices'' operating in the cell and their corresponding biotechnological applications.
The implications of these new theoretical and conceptual perspectives will be confronted with the practical and technological issues posed by the design and construction of small scale devices, in synergy with the participating research laboratories working on nanoelectronics, nanorefrigeration, supra-molecular devices, catalytic devices, biotechnology of the cell, micro-fluidics and micro-arrays. We will also devote special attention to expertise-broadening training of young scientists.
Keywords:
Nonequilibrium nanodevices, stochastic thermodynamics, control and efficiency, molecular engines.
Duration:
5 years from March 2009 until March 2014
More information can be found in the EPSD brochure
