|
Introduction
Our research centers around the investigation of the
mechanism and dynamics of photo-induced reactions occurring in novel
molecular devices and biological systems using single-molecule detection techniques.
(a)
Molecular devices and materials chemistry
Photoluminescence and electroluminescence properties of photostable molecules are examined using
time-resolved confocal microscopy.
Single-molecule studies aimed at understanding fluorescence intermittency
behavior and charge-separation/recombination dynamics between single
donor/acceptor pair sites in various environments will provide valuable
insights into the working mechanism of organic light-emitting diodes
(OLED). We will study the nanoenvironments of
novel polymeric materials, particularly those that exhibit ideal hole or
electron transporting properties.
(b)
Green chemistry
We are interested in understanding the driving force behind
catalytic reactions in confined spaces at the single-molecule level. Improvement
in the design of currently available catalytic hosts is achieved by
studying the dynamics of photoproduct formation taking place in
individual confined assemblies.
(c)
Biotechnology
In collaboration with Dr. Xing
Bengang (CBC), we will tackle the problem of bacterial
resistance against antibiotics. Single-molecule detection techniques such
as wide-field microscopy and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy will
be employed. This study will have important implications in drug design.
We are also interested in finding out more about single protein folding
kinetics and single protein-single protein interaction in confined host
materials.
|