Nanoparticle and Quantum Dot Research Group
Group Leader: AProf. Dr. Richard Tilley
The aim of the Nanoparticle and Quantum Dot Research Group is to synthesise and characterize novel, cutting edge nanoparticle materials. We approach this problem using solution phase chemical techniques which allow for the synthesis of very uniform nanoparticles with superb control over their size and shape. The nanoparticles are characterised using a wide range of techniques with particular focus on high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM).
Nanoparticles have an extremely large surface area interacting with their environment; therefore the size and shape of a nanoparticle can influence its behaviour. Here in the Nanoparticle and Quantum Dot Research Group we focus strongly on controlling nanoparticle morphology as this can lead to the development of materials with designable chemical and physical properties.
The potential for these materials is truly enormous and we have collaborations in New Zealand and internationally to explore these exciting possibilities. Links with Tokyo University and The International Medical Centre of Japan have been established as well as strong links with Cambridge and Oxford Universities, Toshiba in Japan and Johnson and Matthey, UK.
There are three main platform technologies which form the research interests of the Nanoparticle and Quantum Dot Research Group. If you are interested, read more about those technologies at our Research Projects section.