My group’s research centers on the design and rational synthesis of novel nanomaterials for a range of applications, including cancer nanomedicine, regenerative medicine, catalysis, and clean energy technology. As for synthesis, my group is building a scientific base for the large-scale production of nanomaterials with well-controlled parameters and properties by elucidating the fundamental details involved in nucleation and growth. In terms of nanomedicine, our current efforts include the development of gold nanocages as a contrast agent for optical imaging and as a photothermal agent for hypothermia treatment. Our group is also developing nanoscale capsules based on phase-change materials for controlled release with superb spatial/temporal resolutions. For regenerative medicine, our group is applying electrospun nanofibers to the repair of injuries in peripheral nerve, tendon, and tendon-to-bone insertion. Related to energy, our group is exploring the use of shape-controlled metal nanocrystals for improving the performance of fuel cells.

Awards and Achievements

  • Fellow, American Chemical Society (ACS) ( 2014)
  • Highly cited researchers in chemistry and materials science ( 2014)
  • Nano Today Award ( 2013)
  • National Award in the Chemistry of Materials, American Chemical Society (ACS) ( 2013)
  • Fred Kavli Distinguished Lectureship in Nanoscience, Materials Research Society (MRS) ( 2013)
  • Top 100 materials scientists (No. 4) and top 100 chemists (No. 35) in the world ( 2000-2010)
  • Top 10 chemists (No. 5) in the world ( 1999-2009)
  • Fellow, American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (AIMBE) ( 2011)
  • Fellow, Materials Research Society (MRS) ( 2009)
  • NIH Director's Pioneer Award, National Institutes of Health (NIH) ( 2006)
  • Leo Hendrik Baekeland Award, the North Jersey Section of American Chemical Society (ACS) ( 2005)
  • Camille Dreyfus Teacher Scholar, Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation ( 2002)
  • Fellow in Science and Engineering, David and Lucile Packard Foundation ( 2000)
  • Alfred P. Sloan Foundation ( 2000)
  • Faculty Early Career Development Award, National Science Foundation ( 1999)
  • Victor K. LaMer Award, American Chemical Society (ACS) ( 1999)
  • Oversea Young Investigator Award, Chinese Natural Science Foundation ( 1999)
  • New Faculty Award, Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation ( 1997)
  • MRS Medal