Sunlight-Driven Thermochemical Reactions
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​This project leverages the unique light-harvesting capabilities of plasmonic nanoparticles to drive sustainable carbon-neutral processes. Our work centers on engineering the nanoparticle surface to enhance charge transfer and catalytic selectivity while designing and optimizing photothermal reactors operating efficiently under solar irradiation. By coupling surface modification strategies with reactor-level integration, we aim to unlock new pathways for sunlight-driven conversion with improved energy efficiency and system scalability.

​Current funding: Ershaghi Center for Energy Transition (USC)

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Mixed Oxide Catalysts for Energy Applications

This project explores the development of oxidic catalysts for solid oxide electrolysis devices (SOEDs). We focus on how contaminants—such as sulfur species—impact their inherent performance for CO2/H2O co-electrolysis. We aim to establish structure-function relationships that enhance performance stability and resilience under realistic electrochemical operating conditions through integrated materials design and in situ characterization.

Current funding:  DOE Center for Understanding and Control of Acid Gas-Induced Evolution of Materials for Energy (UNCAGE-ME) ​

Self-Assembly of Complex-Concentrated Alloys

This project aims to establish a versatile, solid-state synthesis route for complex concentrated alloy (CCA) and high-entropy alloy (HEA) nanoparticles, leveraging the self-assembly of multimetallic species exsolved from tailored perovskite oxide precursors. By harnessing the tunability of the perovskite lattice and controlled thermal activation, we seek to enable scalable, compositionally diverse nanocatalysts with precisely engineered interfaces for clean energy conversion applications.

Current funding:  DOE Early Career Award
​ (Materials Chemistry)

Electrothermal Process Development

This project focuses on developing a novel electrothermal reactor that utilizes Joule (resistive) heating to drive catalytic transformations with improved energy efficiency and reduced process costs. By directly coupling electrical energy to active catalyst interfaces, the system enables rapid, localized heating and precise thermal control, offering a transformative approach to both conventional and emerging chemical processes. Target applications include hydrogen reforming, synthetic fuel production via Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, CO₂ capture and conversion, and biomass-to-energy pathways, positioning the platform as a versatile solution for sustainable chemical manufacturing.

Current funding: Samsung GRO

Monolith-Supported Catalysts for Reactive Capture Approaches

We are developing structured catalysts for thermocatalytic reactive capture approaches. This approach stabilizes the catalyst structure while expanding the carbon capture capacity of multifunctional materials, enabling durable operation under harsh cyclic conditions.

Current funding: NSF Career Award (CBET)

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