Latha Venkataraman is a Professor at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) since 2025, with prior tenure at Columbia University (2007-2025) including roles as Lawrence Gussman Professor of Applied Physics (2019-2025) and Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs (2019-2022). Her research focuses on molecular electronics , particularly single-molecule device physics , quantum transport , and metal-organic interfaces , with applications in organic electronics and catalysis . Key research themes include: Electronic, mechanical, and thermoelectric properties of atomic-scale devices Quantum interference effects in single-molecule junctions Electric field-driven chemical reactions and conductance modulation Development of gold-carbon and gold-sulfur contacts Her recent publications (2023-2025) reveal trends in topological molecular systems , spin-selective transport , and field-assisted chemical transformations , with collaborations spanning synthetic chemistry, theoretical physics, and materials science. Scientific accolades include the Alexander von Humboldt Research Award (2023) and ACS-PRF Grant (2008). Notable contributions include: Creation of single-molecule diodes and insulators via quantum interference First single-molecule potentiometer demonstration Elucidation of solvent effects on molecular junctions Advances in gold-thiol bond characterization Her lab trains students in applied physics and molecular engineering , with recent graduates like Liang Li and Woojung Lee . The group maintains strong ties with Columbia University and University of Science and Technology China .








