We are developing ultrafast multiple-dimensional vibrational spectroscopic methods to determine molecular structures in condensed phases, and vibrational energy transfer methods to investigate transient short-range molecular distances <1nm.
Our group pioneered the development and application of single-molecule and super-resolution imaging methods for the studies of biological systems. We invented a super-resolution imaging method, stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM), and discovered novel cellular structures using STORM. We invented a single-cell transcriptome imaging method, multiplexed error-robust fluorescence in situ hybridization (MERFISH), and have applied this … Continued
My research group specializes in time-resolving energy flow and structural dynamics using a class of techniques called ultrafast 2D spectroscopies and microscopies. For example, we are studying the mechanism by which proteins form amyloid fibrils using 2D Infrared spectroscopy and are investigating exciton dynamics in photovoltaics using 2D Electronic spectroscopy. We have contributed many technological … Continued
I study electrons at interfaces, and under far-from-equilibrium conditions, in order to controllably interconvert energy among various forms. One of my research group’s primary model systems is the semiconductor quantum dot (QD). The strong confinement of a QD’s electrons leads to bright, narrow light emission, but also limits QDs’ applications. We have shown that certain … Continued
The central research goal in our group is to discover and apply tools for measuring and understanding functional behaviors of complex inorganic supramolecular and nanoscale materials. We build and utilize new analytical separation methodologies to separate, purify and study magnetic nanoparticles and nanoparticle heterostructures. We aim to demonstrate solutions to the critical problems of quantitative … Continued
Research conducted in my group strives to elucidate the origins of molecular behavior by probing fundamental physical properties and chemical propensities. Ongoing experiments exploit diverse forms linear and nonlinear laser spectroscopy, many of which were pioneered in our laboratories (e.g., polarization-resolved resonant four-wave mixing and cavity ring-down polarimetry), to interrogate the ground-state and excited-state potential … Continued
Our group seeks to provide vital insight into the electronic mechanisms that underpin device function in an array of molecular systems-including artificial photosynthesis and molecular electronics-by extending the powerful techniques of electronic structure theory into the relatively uncharted waters of electron dynamics. We are developing novel methods that accurately describe the key steps of charge … Continued
I am interested in the development of methods and strategies for the synthesis of natural products, as well as the specific application of photochemical, thermal, and enzyme-mediated cyclization reactions with control of stereochemistry.
I develop and apply theoretical and computational methods to study problems involving the structure and dynamics of complex condense phase systems, including proteins, membranes, liquids, and materials. For example, I have developed a method known as “multiscale coarse-graining” in which the resolution of the molecular-scale entities is reduced into simpler structures, but key information on … Continued
My research interests revolve around inorganic nanomaterials, from synthetic methodology to self-assembly to optoelectronic devices.