Faculty of Science Project Summaries

Supervisors

Supervisor name: Nisha Agarwal

Project title: Quantum Treatment of Tip Enhanced Raman Scattering Modes

Summary of research project: Tip-Enhanced Raman Scattering combines scanning probe microscopy with surface-enhanced Raman scattering to analyze chemical processes at the nanoscale. A laser focused on a sharp, metallic probe tip generates a strong localized electromagnetic field (a "hotspot"). When this hotspot is brought close to a sample, it significantly enhances the Raman signal, allowing for chemical imaging with resolution down to angstroms. Our goal is to analyze the field of a laser beam around a metal-coated tip and study the associated skin effect and surface plasmons. This dynamics of a simple molecule in this field will be studied as an open quantum system to quantify the effect of thermal and quantum noise.

Student responsibilities/tasks:

The intern analyzes molecular structures and vibrational symmetries, builds a simplified Tip‑Enhanced Raman Scattering (TERS) lossy‑cavity model, and simulates polarization‑ and frequency‑dependent Raman contrast.

Student qualifications required:

Completed courses in Quantum Mechanics (QM) and Electromagnetism (EM).
Experience with Density Functional Theory (DFT) or molecular modeling.
Basic coding skills (Python or MATLAB).
Strong analytical and visualization skills.
Minimum A- average in physics courses.

Expected training/skills to be received by the Student:

Training in quantum‑chemistry modeling (normal modes, symmetry, Raman tensors) and visualization of molecular vibrations.
Development of a lossy‑cavity theoretical model to understand near‑field enhancement and polarization‑dependent Raman contrast.
Skills in data analysis, comparing theoretical predictions with experimental TERS measurements to interpret vibrational behavior at the nanoscale.

Length of award: 14 Weeks

Location of award: In-Person

Available Award: NSERC USRA