Energy and Sustainability

We research self-repair of optoelectronic materials, with implications for greener resource use, and amazing solid-state electron transport across proteins, with implications for bioelectronics; both are issues that challenge present models and understanding.

We study (together with David Cahen) halide perovskite semiconductors with emphasis on their properties relevant to photovoltaic applications.

We investigate the formation and organization of nanomaterials (including nanowires, nanotubes and 2D materials), their physical properties (structural, mechanical, electronic, optical, optoelectronic, electromechanical, etc.), and their integration into functional systems (computing, solar cells, sensors, etc.).

The Kronik group studies unique properties of materials using first principles quantum mechanical calculations based mostly on density functional theory. The group develops formalism and methodology and applies it to the prediction/interpretation of novel experiments.

Development of advanced solid state NMR spectroscopy methods for materials science applications, with particular focus on elucidating the relation between structure and function in energy storage and conversion materials.

The Milstein group designs and develops green and sustainable reactions catalyzed by metal complexes for waste-free organic synthesis and renewable energy, based on new approaches to the activation of strong chemical bonds.

The Neumann Lab focuses on catalysis, sustainable chemical transformations and renewable energy research. Using electro- and photochemical techniques the research involves activation and use of small molecules such as oxygen, nitrogen, water and carbon dioxide.

The group studies the interaction of light and matter at the nanoscale. This includes the optics of nanoscale objects, and the development of  methods for optical imaging beyond the diffraction limit.

Our group develops and applies ab initio many-body computational approaches to study excited-state transport and dynamics and complex exciton phenomena in extended functional materials.

We develop robust noncovalent materials (molecular plastics) that are easily fabricated and recycled, enabling a sustainable alternative to conventional pastics. We also work on energy materials that are employed in batteries and solar cells.

The Semenov group uses tools of organic and physical chemistry to understand and apply out-of-equilibrium phenomena in chemical systems.

From molecules to materials. We would like to understand how structural complexity, order and chirality emerge in crystals and thin films. Using coordination chemistry, such materials are designed to have fascinating properties.

Research in the Wagner team concentrates on microstructure-mechanics correlations in polymer nanofibers, carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanocomposites, and biological materials.