Single-Particle Tracking in Complex Polymer Systems

Nanoscale structural heterogeneity in complex polymer systems such as entangled networks and cross-linked gels is the subject of intensive research because it significantly influences the macroscopic properties of the systems, including viscoelasticity. In Yang lab, we couple single-particle tracking and solvent vapor swelling techniques to investigate spatiotemporal structural heterogeneity in entangled polymer networks. We also study anomalies in diffusion dynamics of nanoparticles and reptating polymer chains within such complex systems. 

Single-Particle Spectroscopy of Perovskite Nanocrystals

Perovskite nanocrystals show great promise as semiconductor materials for use in next-generation optoelectronic devices such as solar cells, light-emitting diodes, photodetectors, and lasers. In Yang lab, we focus on the synthesis of colloidal perovskite nanocrystals and the exploration of their photophysical properties via single-particle fluorescence spectroscopy. We aim to establish the relationship between charge carrier dynamics and charge traps which is critical for developing high-efficiency materials. 

BODIPY Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy 

Photodynamic therapy is an effective cancer treatment that uses photosensitizers along with light to produce highly cytotoxic reactive oxygen species such as singlet oxygen (1O2) to kill cancer cells. We study boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY)-based triplet photosensitizers in various forms (molecule, nanoparticle, and  gel) through spectroscopic and computational methods to elucidate their photosensitizing properties and underlying intersystem crossing dynamics depending on structural modifications.