Research

Electrochemical processes offer some of the most promising solutions for energy and sustainability. The transfer of electrons across the interface for reactions is essential for these processes. Despite centuries of observation, there remains a lack of comprehensive theories, models, and experimental techniques to fully describe and predict these processes. Our group utilizes state-of-the-art microscopy to resolve the dynamics of band structures within solids and solution structure in liquids during reactions. By mapping these interfacial dynamics alongside charge transfer kinetics, we aim to establish a definitive link between microscopic behavior and electrochemical performance.

External pressure provides a powerful means to regulate crystallization and amorphization at the interfaces. Mechanical loading modifies local stress distributions, which in turn affect defect formation, mass transport, and the onset of material fracture. In liquids, elevated hydrodynamic pressure can further drive localized dissolution and reprecipitation processes, dynamically reshaping interfacial structure and chemistry. Our group seeks to elucidate the coupled mechanical, chemical, and transport phenomena at such pressurized interfaces. The fundamental understanding gained from this work will inform and enable advances across a broad range of processes, including crystal growth, sintering, and interfacial materials synthesis.

Interactions between organic phases and inorganic substrates play a vital role across a wide range of fields, including materials synthesis, environmental science, and biomedical applications. These organic phases, ranging from ligands, molecules, polymers, to particles, exhibit complex interfacial behaviors. In collaboration with simulation groups, we aim to develop a fundamental understanding of their interfacial processes, including adsorption, aggregation, assembly, and incorporation. Ultimately, we seek to manipulate and control these behaviors through rational substrate design, such as surface patterning and functional coatings.