Colloidal Nanostructures

We develop colloidal nanomaterials for optoelectronic and energy applications. These nanocrystal dispersions act as functional inks that decouple materials synthesis from device fabrication: films are deposited from solution at low temperature, even on flexible or temperature-sensitive substrates. Developing materials and devices in parallel creates a fast feedback loop: device requirements guide the synthesis, and tailored materials enable new devices. 

1. Colloidal nanocrystal synthesis: Development of solution-based synthesis routes for semiconductor nanocrystals, with a focus on scalability, stability, and precise control over composition and surface chemistry. These dispersions enable the low-cost, large-area fabrication of semiconductor thin films.
2. Perovskite solar cells: Emerging perovskite photovoltaics are nearly on par with silicon in power conversion efficiency, but their industrial breakthrough demands materials and processes that scale to hundreds of square kilometers of modules per year. We integrate nanocrystal-based charge transport layers and engineer interfaces to improve device stability and enable scalable deposition methods such as slot-die coating.
3. Miniaturized optical spectrometers: Design of quantum dot infrared photodetectors as the basis for chip-scale spectrometers. Such devices could ultimately be integrated into consumer electronics, enabling everyday material analysis—from detecting contaminants to monitoring product quality.

By integrating materials chemistry, device physics, and a strong orientation toward industry applications, our work contributes to scalable, next-generation photovoltaics and optical sensing technologies.