DNA-directed nanometer-scale integration of single colloidal quantum emitters with on-chip photonics

Abstract

Incorporating colloidal quantum emitters into integrated photonics would greatly advance quantum optics. However, placing individual sub-10 nm colloidal particles onto micron-sized photonic structures with nanometer-scale precision remains challenging. We introduce topography-modulated origami placement, which uses DNA origami to place colloidal nanomaterials within lithographically defined, shape-matched resist wells. The method patterns origami templates onto photonic chips with high yield and nanometer-scale precision. A soft-silicification-passivation step stabilizes deposited origamis while preserving DNA binding sites that selectively attach and align colloidal quantum rods, controlling their position and emission polarization. Placed quantum rods demonstrated room-temperature single-photon emission. We integrated individual quantum rods with waveguides, micro-ring resonators, and bullseye microcavities, and achieved cavity-coupled single-photon emission. This approach offers a general platform for integrating colloidal quantum materials into photonic systems.