Research Areas

Scientific progress in nanotechnology is increasingly propelled by a deep understanding of fundamental chemistry, combined with innovative synthetic strategies and cutting-edge characterization and imaging techniques. In my laboratory, we focus on the rational design, synthesis, and surface functionalization of inorganic nanomaterials, including bismuth, silver, cobalt, gold, and nickel nanoparticles, with the goal of translating these materials into impactful biomedical technologies.

We employ a range of synthetic approaches—such as solution-phase synthesis, thermal decomposition, co-precipitation, and electrochemical methods—to precisely control nanoparticle size, morphology, crystallinity, and surface chemistry. These parameters are critical for achieving colloidal stability, biocompatibility, and tunable physicochemical properties, which are essential for applications in diagnostics, therapeutics, and biosensing.

To thoroughly characterize our nanomaterials, we utilize a comprehensive suite of analytical techniques. Transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM and SEM) provide high-resolution imaging of nanoparticle morphology and structure. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential analysis are used to assess hydrodynamic size and surface charge. X-ray diffraction (XRD) reveals crystallographic phases, while X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) offer insights into surface composition and functional groups. We also use inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for elemental quantification and UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy to evaluate optical properties and nanoparticle tracking.

To assess biomedical functionality, we integrate advanced imaging modalities such as X-ray computed tomography (CT) for high-resolution anatomical imaging and nanoparticle contrast enhancement, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) for non-invasive, depth-resolved imaging of tissue microstructures. We also employ confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, and live-cell imaging to study nanoparticle uptake, intracellular localization, and trafficking in both cancerous and non-cancerous cell lines.

Biological evaluations include cytotoxicity assays (MTT, LDH release) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) quantification to understand cellular responses and potential toxicological effects. These studies are critical for ensuring the safety and efficacy of our materials in clinical contexts.

Ultimately, our goal is to develop clinically translatable nanomaterials for early disease detection, targeted drug delivery, and image-guided therapy. The fundamental chemical insights generated in our lab not only inform the design of next-generation nanomaterials but also contribute to a deeper mechanistic understanding of disease pathology, guiding the development of biosensors and therapeutic constructs for precision medicine.

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Life in the Lab