Welcome

Our research focuses on both fundamental science and real-world applications, utilizing spectroscopic, microscopic, electrical, and electrochemical tools with expertise in condensed matter and biophysics. We employ cutting-edge techniques such as ultrafast photoconductance and photoluminescence measurements, in situ Raman spectroscopy, Atomic force microscopy, and various electrochemical methods. We use quantum calculation tools like KWANT and TKWANT for computational modeling and rely on COMSOL Multiphysics for finite element analysis. We have a wide range of interests (Not all those who wander are lost!). 

Fundamental Research: Presently, we are exploring quantum dynamics in ordered-disorder Structures, quantum effects in energy materials, and quantum biophysics. 

Applied Research: We are working on electrochemical energy storage materials (Li-ion, Li-S batteries, Solid-state electrolytes), battery pack thermal management, and biosensors (based on both fluorescence and 2D material field-effect transistors). 

Please visit our research page for more details.

These efforts have been funded by NASA, SC EPSCoR, NIH, the US Army, and other industrial partners. 

(Click to expand) Some examples of our successes are below

Energy storage: In this work, beginning from a fundamental understanding of atomic vacancies in graphene, we demonstrated new methodologies to surpass quantum capacitance limitations and achieve devices at the pouch cell level. In a recent publication, we investigated the effects of quantum capacitance in Li-S batteries. 

Photonics: By manipulating non-linear optical properties of two-dimensional materials (graphene and MXenes), we fabricated photonic diodes that break time-reversal symmetry to achieve passive non-reciprocal light transmission. 

Biosensors: Using Langevin quantization of circuit quantum electrodynamics, surface plasmons in nanoparticles, and delocalized pi-electron cloud in graphene , we successfully demonstrated highly sensitive biosensors with femtomolar sensitivity.

Quantum biology and nanotoxicity: We established new relationships between defect-induced electronic states in nanomaterials and corresponding cellular responses.

Energy generation: In this project, we achieved wireless energy transmission by leveraging asymmetry in polymers combined with graphene’s high conductivity.

Podila TEDx Talk (August 2024)