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Rowland Junior Fellows Alumni
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Zvonimir Dogic - Complex Fluids and Condensed Matter
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The objective of our research is to understand and control the self-assembly
of matter on a colloidal length scale. The basic building blocks used are colloids of
chemical or biological origin with well controlled spherical or rod-like shape and
polymers with varying persistence length. The interactions between these components
are well understood and can be modified in systematic ways. Despite the simplicity of
these building blocks, they assemble into a variety of novel structures with unexpected
complexity, e.g. 2D smectic phases, colloidal membranes, twisted chiral ribbons, and
lamellar and columnar phases. These processes of self-assembly are under
thermodynamic control and we use statistical mechanics to understand the final
equilibrium structures. In the future we intend to study the assembly, phase transitions
and dynamics of colloidal systems under non-equilibrium conditions.
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Peer Fischer - Symmetry & Chirality
Our research focuses on the interaction of molecules with optical, magnetic, and electric fields.
We are interested in a diverse spectrum of phenomena, ranging from light-matter interactions
to electromagnetic forces. A specific aim is to develop new experimental methods and
instrumentation for the detection of molecules and the separation of enantiomers.
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Kristin Lewis -Chemical Ecology of Parasitic Plant Associations
Parasitic angiosperms are unusual among parasitic organisms in that they and their hosts are
in the same order and are very similar physiologically. The comparable physiology of parasite
and host enables the parasite to create direct connections with host-plant conductive tissues
and cells. Additionally, the host and parasite are influenced by similar endogenous and
exogenous physiological cues. We are interested in what kinds of information can be
shared across the host-parasite boundary and how this affects both plants'
responses to environmental conditions. Our research focuses on the use of novel
methodology to track transfer of resources and signaling molecules between host and parasite.
- Jiwoong Park - Nanoelectronics and Nanosensors
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The electrical conductance of many nanoscale materials is strongly affected by a
local electrostatic and electrochemical environment. This unique property can be
utilized to build a nanosensor whose spatial resolution is comparable to the size
of the sensor itself. The objective of our research is to investigate the electron
transport properties of various nanoscale materials, including carbon nanotubes,
semiconducting nanowires and single molecules, and to develop nanoscale sensors
based on them.
- Frank Vollmer - Biofunctional Photonics
We are interested in design and fabrication of photonic structures and circuits that interface,
probe and manipulate biological systems with single molecule sensitivity. To reach this objective,
light-matter interaction can be sufficiently enhanced by photon recirculation in micro- and nano-scale
cavities that offer ultimate Q and record-low modal volume. Once established, the technique can help
elucidate recognition, interaction and transformation of label-free biomolecules, the interplay of
which give rise to various complex functions and networks that have evolved in the cell. Furthermore,
access to a vast repertoire of functionality by self-assembly of purified or genetically
altered biological components provides exciting opportunity for engineering of molecular-photonic
device architecture.
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