Skip to content Skip to navigation

Recent Program Highlights

Surface ligands are critical in determining the chemical and physical properties of nanocrystals and nanoparticles. However, site-selectivity and preferential binding of these ligands are poorly understood. MRSEC researchers at the University of California, San Diego have uncovered the impact of molecular orientation on m-terphenyl isocyanide ligand binding to metal nanocrystals using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, where molecular motions are amplified when aligned with the optical near-field.

One of the research goals of UCSD MRSEC IRG2 included developing shape-shifting materials driven by asymmetric forces. In a recent effort, the MRSEC team demonstrated an ELM capable of shape-shifting driven by both a temperature stimulus and enzymatic mediated partial degradation of the composite material.

Connecting Research and Education At TExas is a partnership program established between UT Austin and Austin Community College whose goal is to increase retention of community college students in STEM.

Subscribe to MRSEC RSS