Introduction
The Center for Quantum Conversion Research advances the science of quantum conversion, that is, how quantum states interact, transform, and generate new functions of matter and energy. Since its launch at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) on September 1, 2024, the center has built teams specializing in extreme nanospectroscopy, material systems, theory, and AI, with the goal of uncovering fundamental principles behind:
- Dynamics of quantum states: creating single photons, developing highly sensitive quantum sensors, and converting spin-to-photon quantum information
- Energy conversion in nanomaterials: creating quantum functions through mutual energy conversion of light, heat, electricity, etc.
- Chemical conversion at molecular interfaces: microscopic understanding of catalytic reactions and catalyst design strategies based on single-molecule spectroscopy techniques
Recognizing the finite nature of global resources, the Center also seeks to establish an international research network linking universities, research institutes, and industry partners. Through this interdisciplinary collaboration, we aim to deliver sustainable solutions to global economic and industrial challenges driven by fundamental scientific discoveries.
Our Teams
Forefront Research Teams
Quantum Dynamics (QD) Team(s)
Contribution to quantum technologies, such as single-photon generation, spintronics, quantum computer (Qubit, coherence), etc.
Energy Conversion (EC) Team(s)
Contribution to energy conversion technologies, such as magneto-optical memory devices, display devices (OLED), solar cells, etc.
Chemical Conversion (CC) Team(s)
Contribution to technologies for reaction control, such as photocatalyst, artificial photosynthesis, hydrogen evolution, CO2 reduction, fuel cells, etc.
Infrastructural Research Teams
Extreme Nanospectroscopy (EN) Team(s)
Development of novel extreme nanospectroscopy, such as ultrafast luminescence, spin-polarized-luminescence, scanning noise microspectoscopy, etc.
Material Systems (MS) Team(s)
Development of well-defined materials with novel functions, nano/micro device fabrication applicable to nanospectroscopy system, etc.
Theory & AI (TA) Team(s)
Theoretical/computational analysis, model calculation, introducing data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, etc.
The organizational structure of the IBS Center for Quantum Conversion reflects the fact that single-molecule quantum conversion cannot be understood within the boundaries of existing academic disciplines and is intentionally designed as a hyperdisciplinary system. To tackle these deeply intertwined problems, the Center combines Infrastructure Research Teams and Leading Research Teams into an integrated, multi-layered framework. The Infrastructure Research Teams provide essential foundations, such as Extreme Nanospectroscopy, Material Systems, and Theory and Artificial Intelligence, while the Forefront Research Teams investigate Quantum Dynamics, Energy Conversion, and Chemical Conversion. All this research requires these capabilities to operate seamlessly together. This hyperdisciplinary structure creates continuous feedback loops between measurement innovation, material design, and theoretical modeling. It encourages researchers to collaborate organically, transcending individual specializations. By functioning as an interconnected ecosystem rather than isolated units, the Center enables ambitious scientific progress that would be unattainable by any single discipline or team alone.