The MOLESCO network will create a unique training and research environment to develop a pool of young
researchers capable of achieving breakthroughs aimed at realising the immense potential of molecular
electronics. In part this will involve the major challenges of design and fabrication of molecular-scale devices.
To deliver this step-change in capability, MOLESCO will coordinate the activities of internationally-leading
scientists from six different countries. MOLESCO has secured the participation of nine private sector partners,
including one of Europe’s leading industrial electronics-research laboratories (IBM Research–Zurich) as a full
partner. A highly-integrated approach to the experimental and theoretical aspects of molecular-scale
electronics will deliver the fundamental knowledge and new fabrication strategies needed to underpin future
nanotechnologies targeted for electronics applications. MOLESCO represents a highly interdisciplinary and
intersectoral collaboration between teams with an extensive portfolio of skills, including molecular synthesis,
fabrication of molecular junctions, imaging of molecular junctions with atomic resolution, measurements of
charge transport, and electronic structure and transport calculations. Training will be delivered in a series of
high-priority actions primarily aimed at providing the researchers with an outstanding career development
platform. The network has a strong focus on interdisciplinary training; it is built on several well-established
and fruitful collaborations between the partners and seeks to bridge an existing educational gap in the
European Research Arena. The development of complementary skills (presentation, management, technology
transfer, IP protection, outreach and intersectoral training) will be implemented throughout the lifetime of the
project. Specialist professional training in dissemination and outreach will be delivered by our Associate
Partner BLP, a professional media production company.