Current XANADU PhD students

My research focuses on employing advanced surface-sensitive techniques, particularly synchrotron-based X-ray methods, to gain insights into the fundamental processes occurring at the electrode-electrolyte interface during the Oxygen Evolution Reaction.

My reasearch is focused on studying metal surfaces during the corrosion process, aiming to bridge traditional methods with modern X-Ray spectroscopy techniques. By doing so, we seek to gain novel insights into corrosion processes at the atomic scale, addressing a significant societal issue with wide-ranging impacts.

My research is focused on the environmental effects of past volcanic eruptions, focusing on sulfur emissions' impact on ecosystems. We analyse lake sediments to understand volcanic sulfate deposition and investigate the reasons behind rising iron levels in freshwater, using advanced spectroscopic techniques.

My research is research is focused on the secondary use of ash from municipal solid waste incineration. We utilize methods like x-ray absorption spectroscopy and nano-resolved x-ray fluorescence, along with standard aerosol characterization techniques, to analyze the heavy metal content and assess the potential for recycling.

My research focuses on developing machine learning methods to understand electron beams in accelerators, particularly at the MAX IV synchrotron facility. We accelerate electrons close to the speed of light to produce X-rays for scientific research. Extracting beam information in terms of time and energy is challenging due to the high speeds. To overcome this, I'm developing non-destructive methods using artificial neural networks. These methods map data from the accelerator to the destructive measurements without disturbing the beam.

My focus is on advancing X-ray multi-projection imaging (XMPI), a novel technique revolutionizing X-ray imaging. At synchrotron and XFEL facilities, I'm spearheading its hardware development and integration.

Unlike traditional tomography, XMPI doesn't require sample rotation. Instead, it utilizes multiple simultaneous X-ray beams to illuminate samples from various angles. This non-rotational approach is vital for studying samples sensitive to centrifugal forces and enables capturing ultra-fast dynamics.

My ultimate aim is to employ XMPI in analyzing cellulose fibers, exploring their properties and dynamics. These renewable biomaterials hold promise as eco-friendly alternatives to plastics.

My PhD project delves into shock metamorphism, a crucial process occurring during celestial body collisions, leading to impact craters. While quartz's response to shock is well-documented, I focus on exploring how accessory minerals, despite their prevalence, react under these extreme conditions, particularly within low-pressure regimes. This research sheds light on both Earth's geological history and the broader processes shaping planetary bodies in the universe.

My research centers on advancing pharmaceutical development using lipid nanoparticles, particularly non-lamellar lipid crystalline phases like spongosomes. These structures encapsulate complex biomolecules for human therapeutics, necessitating a deep understanding of their structure, dynamics, and biomolecule interactions. My work emphasizes designing nanocarriers to safeguard biomolecules, enable targeted delivery, and optimize release mechanisms. Additionally, I investigate cellular uptake of these formulations using techniques such as SAXS, SANS, DLS, reflectometry, microscopy (STED, cryoEM), QCMd, and flow cytometry.

My project explores nanostructure dynamics within ultrashort timeframes, specifically focusing on 0D, 1D, and 2D metal-semiconductor hybrid systems fabricated in cleanrooms. Using high-resolution electron imaging/spectroscopy and advanced laser sources, I investigate femtosecond phenomena at the atomic level. This research holds promise for applications in renewable energy and computation.

My research centers on impact cratering and shock metamorphism. My dissertation's preliminary title is "Insights into impact cratering through microscale deformation."

My research focuses on developing longitudinal single-cell sequencing, enabling the tracking of protein production in individual cells over time. We aim to achieve this by performing cell biopsies using our group's method called nanostraw or nanopore electroporation. This technique utilizes hollow nanowires or nanopores to extract cell contents for analysis, providing insights into cellular responses to various treatments such as new drugs.

I'm fascinated by how light and matter interact, especially at the microscopic level. This interaction underpins technologies like solar cells, LEDs, and medical imaging dyes. For instance, I study how shining light on tiny structures, like a 100 nanometer-wide "nanowire," can control light emission from nano-sized LEDs. I'm also intrigued by how light can trigger temporary changes in dye molecules, altering their optical properties.

We must replace fossil fuels. Biofuels, rich in methane, offer promise but pose a greenhouse gas dilemma. Methane must be processed to reduce its environmental impact. Catalysts facilitate this process by lowering the energy barrier for reactions. By studying these reactions using X-rays, we gain insights into optimizing catalysts. My project aims to investigate how catalyst surface phases affect methane and hydrocarbon processing. Depending on oxygen availability, oxidation can yield carbon dioxide, water, or carbon monoxide. Additionally, carbon deposition on catalyst surfaces will be examined. Ultimately, this research aims to develop more effective catalysts for hydrocarbon oxidation, crucial for combating climate change.