Abstract

Photosynthesis, the biological process whereby solar energy is stored as a fuel, is the link between the energy of the Sun and life on Earth. In fact, currently we use the energy stored by Photosynthesis over millions of years by burning fossil fuels. However, the solution to the problems related to, among others, health and environment caused by this unsustainable approach requires an improved utilization of the photosynthetic process.

The paradigm of photosynthesis is the Photosystem II Reaction Center, the unique molecular machine capable of converting solar to electrochemical energy with an amazing near-unity quantum efficiency despite its intrinsically disordered energy landscape. In my talk, I will present a detailed view of the molecular mechanisms leading to efficient energy utilization in the Photosystem II Reaction Center with a focus on the role of quantum coherence. Furthermore, I will introduce a series of bio-inspired model systems that provide engineering freedom both to test (serve as proof of concept) and to implement (serve as platforms) the molecular mechanisms found in Nature with the final goal of realizing sustainable and efficient solar-energy conversion devices.