Nanophotonics & Nanomedical Research Group (나노광학 및 나노의학 연구)

We specialize in characterizing the “small world” of nanomaterials using absorption and emission spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta-potential analysis. Through these analyses, we investigate the properties of synthesized materials and use the resulting insights to guide the future design of functional nanomaterials. We synthesize new nanocrystals by controlling precursor reactivity and reaction intermediates. Quantum dots are inorganic nanocrystals with a molecular-level size distribution, and their small size allows a large number of atoms to reside at the surface. For example, InP quantum dots, which are widely used in QLED displays, can contain approximately 1,000 to 10,000 atoms, depending on the size. Although the exact atomic structure and growth mechanism of these nanocrystals remain difficult to determine, quantized intermediates can form during their synthesis. These intermediates are structurally analogous to the critical nuclei described in classical nucleation theory. Our research focuses on understanding these intermediate nanoclusters and controlling their formation through precursor chemistry, with the goal of establishing growth pathways and mechanistic principles for the development of high-performance QLED nanocrystals. We also investigate surface chemistry at the nanoscale. Surface chemistry is essential for forming efficient conjugates with proteins, DNA, and antibodies, and it plays a critical role in controlling colloidal stability and surface functionality. In particular, we study ultrafast surface modification using quantized ions and investigate reversible surface bonding based on hydrogen-bonding interactions. Through these approaches, we aim to establish precise and efficient strategies for tailo