Systems and methodologies of growing an active layer (e.g., a polymer layer) for a memory cell via catalyst points of a self assembled monolayer (SAM). The self assembled monolayer can act as a site that anchors a subsequent growth of polymer chain reactions, via the presence of the DPA that reacts with the active catalyst spots. The DPA can react with a surface of the self assembled monolayer to form an active layer of the polymer memory cell.