Dean Research Group

In our group, we use light to probe the molecular and electronic structure of molecules, and/or to trigger unique light-activated processes within those molecules. We use a myriad of techniques to accomplish this, from traditional "steady-state" UV-visible absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy to time-resolved absorption and laser spectroscopy of cold molecular beams. Quantum chemical calculations and theoretical modeling are done in tandem with those experiments to help unveil key molecular properties accessed with our spectroscopy tools. This tandem approach enables us to connect key structural features of organic molecules to their light-activated function toward renewable energy applications, excitonics, and photochemistry.

The SUU Laser and Supersonic Expansion (LaSE) facility incorporates a number of laser systems and supersonic beam apparatus to enable a variety of laser spectroscopy techniques and photochemical experiments. These resources include high-power Nd:YAG lasers, tunable visible-UV lasers, a tunable infrared laser, and fixed wavelength diode lasers. Taken together, laser light spanning 200 - 7000 nm can be generated and tuned throughout the UV/visible/IR region to access electronic and vibrational transitions of most chromophores.