Single Molecules, Nanoparticles, Nanobubbles, and the Mysterious Chemical Interface

We develop and use highly sensitive methods to study single molecules, nanoparticles, and nanobubbles. The goal of this research is to address fundamental questions in biology, synthesis, energy conversion and storage, electrocatalysis, and chemical sensing. Using these methods, we wish to develop a more detailed understanding of many interfacial chemistry processes at the true molecular scale.

Chemical Imaging with Massive Arrays of Nanoelectrodes Containing >10^9 Electrodes

The secretion of neurotransmitters plays a central role in neuronal communication and is associated with many brain disorders. Microelectrodes can detect oxidizable neurotransmitters (e.g., dopamine) at single cells with extrordinary temporal resolutions but lack the ability to spatially resolve neurochemical information. We are developing a powerful electroanalytical method to image dopamine release at nanoscale with billions of nanoelectrodes. This research will help us better understand neuronal secretion and many other brain functions.