Chemistry governs the makings of materials and the functions of biological systems. Our research looks into these processes from a microscopic view. We are interested in knowing how electrons are transferred, how atoms are rearranged during a reaction, and in trying to put together the reaction puzzle by interrogating the species that are critical, yet short-lived. This requires the development of new x-ray based techniques to view atoms during reactions*. Also, our research on the growth of carbon nanotubes may one day reveal how to make perfect nanotubes, which can be potential building blocks in molecular electronics, super-strong materials, and efficient fuel cells. Nanoparticle based cancer curing agents using both x-rays and powerful new microscopes developed in our lab may help advance cancer treatment**. The knowledge gained from all these projects will give us greater insights into our world.

*Work supported by the National Science Foundation under grant No. 135132 . **Work partially supported by the American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Funds and the Dreyfus Foundation

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Last Edited 04-28-06



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