Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Science Foundation's Division of Chemistry awarded a $648,877 project grant to Harvard University (President and Fellows of Harvard College) on June 15, 2026, through the Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program. Under the direction of Professor Kang-Kuen Ni, the research team will conduct experimental investigations into coherent control of ultracold molecular reactions, with a specific focus on nuclear spin dynamics and quantum coherence preservation. The primary deliverable is the design and execution of reaction interferometer experiments to probe quantum state behavior across diverse initial molecular configurations, including systems with deliberately controlled phase variations. The project will generate fundamental knowledge regarding when quantum coherence is maintained or lost during chemical reactions and identify factors controlling nuclear spin behavior, with potential applications in quantum communication through engineered chemical entangled pairs and biological signaling mechanisms.

The award period extends through May 31, 2029, and encompasses comprehensive research and educational outcomes. Deliverables include peer-reviewed research findings on quantum state-selective reactions in unconventional molecular species such as bi-alkali systems, where nuclear spin coherence survives atom-exchange reactions. The project will also produce trained quantum science researchers through involvement of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, alongside educational opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in cutting-edge experimental work. The research builds upon recent advances in ultracold molecule techniques and directly addresses the long-standing chemistry objective of achieving coherent control at the quantum state level.