Ultrasmall nanomaterials (1-2 nm) features many molecular-like properties, and they can be represented by a molecular formula. We aim to introduce such atomically precise chemistry into nanoscience research. In our past research, we have successfully demonstrated these chemistry in atomically precise metal nanoclusters (metal nanoparticles below 2 nm in size). We are going further with these metal nanoclusters, as well as various different nanomaterials.

(1) Understanding the optical properties of atomically precise nanomaterials.

How atomically precise nanomaterials interact with light (e.g., absorption, emission)? Just like molecules, a small difference in the composition may lead to a significant differerence in the optical properties.

(2) Understanding the reaction mechanism associated with atomically precise nanomaterials

In chemical reactions, understanding how one nanomaterial (e.g., metal nanoclusters) transform into another is crucial for the reaction design and control. We develop mass spectrometry methods to gain mechanistic insights.

(3) Utilizing machine learning methods to accerlate nanoscience research

Chemical synthesis can be "smart" if machine learning and automation can be incorporated. This will greatly extend the nanomaterial synthesis.