The aim of this research consortium is the development of novel organic functional materials with specifically tunable electronic properties and their application as photoactive components and organic semiconductors. The concept is based on the N ↔ CH isosteric relationship (as well as the corresponding NH ↔ CH₂ substitution) in combination with the number and ring size of condensed heteropolycycles in order to specifically tailor their electronic and optical properties while leaving their molecular shapes unchanged. 

The prerequisite for a rational approach to these new materials is a detailed insight into the underlying elementary processes, including those of molecular aggregation (and its control through weak intermolecular interactions), their structures at interfaces as well as electronic excitation and charge transport. The research plan comprises the whole spectrum, starting out from synthetic method development, structural and spectroscopic characterization and theoretical modelling of molecules, small aggregates and solid films. Of particular interest is the way in which molecular properties are related to the optoelectronic properties of materials and devices.