Abstract: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a widely used technique that has transformed our understanding of the structure and function of biological systems. MRI relies on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, a technique for measuring the weak magnetism inherent to some atomic nuclei. NMR provides detailed spectroscopic information about the chemical environment, structure, and dynamics of molecules. These capabilities have made NMR an indispensable tool in medicine, analytical chemistry, structural biology, and materials science. Extending the powerful capabilities of NMR and MRI to the nanometer scale would provide a whole new lens with which to view the structure and function of complex biomolecules, e.g., proteins, virus particles, and novel materials. However, this advance would require substantial enhancement in the sensitivity of conventional NMR detection.

In this talk, I will describe a new platform for force-detected magnetic resonance detection that combines ultra-sensitive spin detection, with high-fidelity quantum control and the ability to generate intense magnetic fields and field gradients in nanometer-scale volumes. This combination of capabilities is unique and represents a significant advance in nanometer scale magnetic resonance detection. Looking ahead, these capabilities could open the way to new techniques for atomic scale MRI and quantum information processing applications that require the ability to study and control the interaction of small spins ensembles with their environment.