My research sits at the interface between molecular/materials design and exploring the extremes of excitonic photophysics. Leveraging new spectroscopic tools we develop and explore systems with long-range energy transport, ultranarrow absorption, extreme quantum confinement and superradiant photoemission. We aim to use fundamental physical chemistry principles, ranging from thermodynamic studies to quantum information science to address three primary themes enumerated below:

(i) Molecules and materials with quantum functionality: We develop new systems whose quantum states can be prepared and read out using optical excitation in complex environments (e.g., in condensed phase), and explore applications such as sensing electromagnetic fields and rare earth separation.

(i) Molecules and materials for UV or shortwave infrared absorption and emission: We explore organic and inorganic materials with absorption and emission in the ultraviolet or  near and shortwave infrared (UV 200-400, NIR, 700-1000, SWIR 1000-2000 nm). In the UV we are interested in highly stable molecules and nanoparticles with applications photoprotection and downconversion. In the SWIR we are tuning the vibronic scaffold, supramolecular structure, and “extramolecular” control over photonic degrees of freedom to design new infrared emitters.  Simultaneously, we explore novel nanocrystal materials (particularly Cd and Hg Tellurides) with superlative NIR and SWIR photophysical properties. 

(iii) New (micro)spectroscopic methods for spectroscopy from the visible to the SWIR: We are building microscopes and spectrometers to leverage new forms of contrast availed by photon coherence, from interferometry to electromagnetic manipulation of optical and spin states. Our goal is to both study and develop applications for the systems developed in (i) and (ii).

The long-term goal will be to create general principles of design that enable the optimization of light absorption across understudied spectral windows. The applications are numerous and include developing sunscreens with diminished white-cast, novel entangled quantum sensors, deep tissues imaging contrast agents, and new cameras for self-driving cars.