Justin Earley will join the School of Molecular Sciences at Arizona State University in August of 2024 bringing with him a research interest in quantum sensing with an emphasis of molecular qubit systems and spectroscopy. Justin received a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, followed by a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of Colorado Boulder in partnership with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory; both of which Justin focused on spectroscopic developments to tackle new molecular problems in the areas of multidimensional spectroscopy and cavity-enhanced microwave spectroscopy. This innovative spirit carried into his postdoctoral work in the College of Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he focused on the development of mid/longwave infrared dual comb spectroscopy.
The essence of Justin’s research at ASU is driven by a fascination with quantum sensing as the pinnacle of detection technologies, particularly in understanding the molecular intricacies of optically-addressable, synthetic qubits. His lab specializes in advancing magnetic resonance techniques, such as optically detected magnetic resonance, to probe spin coherences in addition to developing dual frequency comb spectroscopy for probing structural and electronic transitions of new qubit candidates. Through these endeavors, the Earley Lab aims to not only dissect the quantum world but to also leverage its unique properties for groundbreaking discoveries and technological innovations.
- Postdoctoral Fellow - University of Colorado Boulder, College of Engineering (2024)
- Ph.D. - University of Colorado Boulder, Department of Chemistry (2023)
- B.S. - University of Wisconsin - Madison, Department of Chemistry (2017)
Building upon the insights and the potential applications identified through the exploration of optically addressable, spin-based synthetic qubits, our laboratory at Arizona State University focuses on the interplay between electronic and molecular structures in defining qubit behavior. The primary aim is to dissect and understand the intrinsic properties of molecular qubits and their interaction with external analytes, focusing on critical questions around spin preservation, temperature-induced decay pathways, and the impact of optical excitation on spin sublevels.
Our group is pioneering in developing spectroscopic techniques that include optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) for heightened spin sensitivity and dual frequency comb spectroscopy for its unparalleled optical frequency resolution. These methodologies are complemented by explorations in time-resolved X-ray experiments at ASU's compact X-ray free-electron laser (CXFEL) facility, which enable insights into time-resolved structural changes and their correlation with molecular qubit efficiency. This comprehensive suite of techniques, along with traditional photophysical measurements, equips us to delve deeply into the physics that govern molecular qubits.
The outcomes of our research are poised to significantly influence the synthetic qubit community and the broader field of quantum sensing. By unlocking detailed understanding of molecular qubits, we aim to enable more informed synthesis of new qubit candidates and leverage their properties for quantum sensing applications. The potential impact of our work spans various sectors, including medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and materials science, where quantum sensors developed from our research could lead to groundbreaking advances in sensitivity and specificity. This work not only contributes to the fundamental science underpinning quantum computing and sensing but also paves the way for practical applications that harness the unique quantum mechanical properties of molecular systems for real-world benefits.