My research focuses on the emergent field at the interface between plant physiology and nanotechnology. Nanoparticles have unique optical, electronic, and chemical properties, but their impact on plant function and structure is essentially unexplored. My work aims to develop research tools with nanomaterials to monitor and manipulate plant function. Our nanobionic approach also seeks to enable plants with novel or augmented functions through the use of nanomaterials at scales ranging from plant organelles to whole organisms. Research projects in my lab will initially focus on: understanding the mechanisms of enhancement of plant photosynthesis with nanomaterials; developing selective and biocompatible nanosensors for imaging plant compounds in real-time; achieving targeted delivery and controlled release of biomolecules in plants with nanoparticles.
