Twisted Two-Dimensional van der Waals Materials for the Sequencing of Bio-Molecules Using Quantum Tunneling

Clinical applications of biomolecular sequencing for disease treatment and prevention require the handling of a limited number of molecules with samples that are often poorly isolated and refined, and with the need for immediate time-sensitive results. The current sequencing technologies do not adequately provide this single molecule identification and sequence without adding significant errors. Electrical detection through changes in the quantum tunneling current as a bio-molecule translates through a solid-state nanopore could enable this accurate and reliable de novo molecular sequencing. The proposed research will leverage recent advancements in the processing and synthesis of twisted two-dimensional materials which has led to a new formulation of tunneling electrodes and that could enable biomolecular sequencing. The requested seed funding will support the relevant training of graduate students and the acquisition of critical preliminary data that should provide a solid foundation for acquiring federal funding. Developing this avenue of research will support the emergence of an exciting and potentially lucrative materials research program at the University of Kentucky.