Realizing scalable quantum light technologies requires both atomically precise nanocrystal synthesis and deterministic single-particle positioning. This talk explores strategies to achieve these goals by leveraging the extremes of nanocrystal size. First, we examine kinetically persistent cluster molecules, which are intermediates in colloidal nanocrystal nucleation, as high-fidelity models for understanding crystal growth mechanisms, structure, and reactivity. By understanding the structure, formation, and conversion of these clusters, we gain insights into synthesis pathways that minimize ensemble heterogeneity and move us toward the chemist's dream of perfect nanocrystals.
Next, we address a critical challenge in quantum photonics: the scalable integration of colloidal quantum dots as single-photon emitters. We demonstrate two approaches that exploit QD size to enable deterministic placement into large-scale ordered arrays while preserving photostability and quantum emission properties. Specifically, SiO2 and CdS shells expand QD size, facilitating precise positioning via high-fidelity template-assisted self-assembly and electrohydrodynamic inkjet printing. We show that single “colossal” QDs maintain room-temperature antibunching behavior and can be deterministically coupled to photonic cavities, advancing their viability for quantum technologies.