Latha Venkataraman

Latha Venkataraman, a Professor at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), leads groundbreaking research in single-molecule electronics. Her interdisciplinary work bridges physics, chemistry, and nanotechnology, focusing on probing electronic, mechanical, and optical properties of atomic-scale devices. Previously, she held the Lawrence Gussman Professor role at Columbia University and served as Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs (2019–2022). Her lab's innovations include creating single-molecule insulators, studying quantum interference, and advancing molecular diodes with high on/off ratios.

• Education: PhD in Physics, Harvard University (1999)

Research Themes: Venkataraman's work explores molecular electronics, quantum transport, and metal-organic interfaces. She investigates how chemical structure and external stimuli (e.g., voltage, solvents) influence conductance, thermoelectricity, and bond stability in atomic-scale circuits.

Her 15 most recent articles (2023–2025) highlight advancements in topological radical pairs, solvent-driven bond modulation, and Fano resonance-based gating. These studies span Nano Letters, Nature Communications, and Journal of the American Chemical Society, reflecting collaborations with chemists and theoretical physicists.

Awards: She has received prestigious honors including the Alexander von Humboldt Research Award, Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship, NSF CAREER Award, and ACS-PRF Grant. Her group also mentors award-winning students like Claudia Prindle (NDSEG Fellowship) and Liang Li (Hammett Award).

Outreach & Education: Venkataraman actively engages in STEM outreach, including initiatives at Harlem Children's Zone and Columbia's Girls Science Day. Her lab welcomes PhD and postdoc applicants through ISTA's competitive program.