Live-cell Imaging and Sub-cellular Communications
In ensemble experiment, only average properties and function of a molecule can be investigated. In most of the cases, behavior and function of an individual molecule can be very different from the bulk average properties. Using single-molecule imaging properties dynamics of an individual molecule can be explored. Our laboratory goal is to develop novel technologies based on the unique properties of nanomaterials to significantly impact the future of fluorescent-based single-molecule imaging techniques. Current projects focus on developing fluorescent nanoparticles to efficiently target cellular organelles
Supramolecular Chemistry
Our understanding of making covalent bonds between molecules has reached a zenith. But in comparison, we still have an inadequate understanding of weak intermolecular forces. Supramolecular chemistry, a bottom-up approach, is all about interactions between molecules via non-covalent forces. In our lab, we construct bio-functional supramolecular assemblies in aqueous solution for their application in sensing and nano-materials.
Physical Properties of Materials
Properties of molecules are quite different in its ground and excited-state. Properties emerging from the excited-state can have various applications. We synthesize photo-active molecules and perform simple modification of commercially available molecule to study their properties in excited-state. We are also interested in studying the influence of supramolecular assembly on the ground and excited state properties.