SCHLENKER GROUP

The Schlenker group integrates synthetic chemistry and physical chemistry to explore fundamental principles and dynamic interfacial processes that allow us to develop advanced materials design concepts for low-cost, high-efficiency energy conversion and storage devices. Our group's common scientific goal is to more deeply understand how electronic dynamics at interfaces and within heterogeneous solids are controlled by molecular and mesoscale organization. Advancing energy science and technology to scale sustainably to global demand requires that we predictively bridge bottom-up molecular behavior to meet top-down device engineering. At present, there is no such bridge. To overcome this challenge, we use chemical functionality to modulate the charge dynamics of model organic, organic/inorganic, and biogenic composites for devices such as thin-film photovoltaics and next-generation rechargeable batteries. We use the tools of physical chemistry, such as pump-probe and luminescence spectroscopy, electrochemistry, time-domain and frequency-domain electronic measurements, and in situ structural characterization methods, to help close our materials development loop, yielding better-informed materials design strategies. For more information, check out our publications page.