Ion Spectroscopy at URI

Using Vacuum Isolation to Explore Molecular Interactions

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Our research group’s overall focus is to leverage the selectivity and control afforded under vacuum conditions to interrogate species that are dynamic, transient, or otherwise difficult to isolate in solution. We apply this approach to investigate topics that span chemistry research areas, including biomolecular structure and dynamics, structural motifs in deep eutectic solvents, and chemistry of the liquid/vapor interface.

Research Goals:

Our laboratory uses advanced spectroscopic techniques to study molecules and molecular interactions that are challenging to examine by other methods. The fundamental molecular understanding enables us to address practical challenges in biomolecular analysis, chemical separations, and atmospheric chemistry.

Structure and Chemistry of Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs)

DESs are an emerging class of lower toxicity solvents with tunable properties. We examine the interactions of DES component clusters to better understand the structures that give rise to unique solvent properties.

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Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics

We examine how human and natural systems respond to climate change and where opportunities for sustainable solutions exist through data analysis, modeling, and applied research.

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Reactive Species and Ions at Liquid/Vapor Interfaces

We explore how environmental challenges affect communities differently based on social and economic factors, combining environmental data with community-focused and policy-based approaches..

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Recent Projects

  • Unraveling the Structural Motifs of Deep Eutectic Solvents by Infrared Action Spectroscopy of Ionic Clusters (ACS PRF, 2022–2025)
  • Innovative Approaches to the Structural Characterization of Biomolecular Ions by Mass Spectrometry and Infrared Action Spectroscopy (NSF LEAPS-MPS, 2022-2025)
  • Probing the Chemistry of the Liquid/Vapor Interface by Infrared Action Spectroscopy of Solvent-Ion Nanoclusters (DOE Early Career, 2025)
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