Combining nanoscale manipulation with macroscale relocation of single quantum dots

We have controllably positioned, with nanometre precision, single CdSe quantum dots referenced to a registration template such that the location of a given nanoparticle on a macroscopic (≈1 cm(2)) sample surface can be repeatedly revisited. The atomically flat sapphire substrate we use is particularly suited to optical measurements of the isolated quantum dots, enabling combined manipulation–spectroscopy experiments on a single particle. Automated nanoparticle manipulation and imaging routines have been developed so as to facilitate the rapid assembly of specific nanoparticle arrangements.