Directing Molecular Assembly At Interfaces for Pharmaceutical, Electronic and Energy Applications

Molecular self-assembly processes, such as nucleation, crystal growth, aggregation, nano-/micro- phase separation, have a profound impact on the solid-state properties of materials. For instances, difference in crystal packing (polymorphism) influences bioavailability, stability and processibility of pharmaceutical compounds; morphology, molecular packing and orientation of organic semiconductors are critical in determining their charge transport characteristics; controlling the nanoscopic phase separation is key to achieving high-efficiency organic solar cells. 

In most practical circumstances, these molecular assembly events occur at interfaces, especially solid-liquid interfaces during solution processing. By engineering the nano-topology, microstructure and chemical patterns of surfaces and interfaces, my research has established new methodologies and demonstrated unprecedented control over nucleation kinetics, polymorphism and crystal morphology. Furthermore, I investigated the role of nanoconfinement on nucleation and employed it as a powerful tool for directing the crystal packing of organic crystals at interfaces. With the new physical insight obtained and the novel approaches developed, I aspire to carry this research further towards 1) developing new technology platforms for fabricating next-generation pharmaceutical and energy materials, 2) deciphering the mechanism of molecular assembly processes at interfaces.

For further information, please visit my website at http://www.stanford.edu/~diao