Research Philosophy
The first principle is that you must not fool yourself—and you are the easiest person to fool. So you have to be very careful about that. After you've not fooled yourself, it's easy not to fool other scientists. You just have to be honest in a conventional way after that.
— Prof. Richard Feynman
It doesn't matter how beautiful your theory is, it doesn't matter how smart you are. If it doesn't agree with experiment, it's wrong.
Operando Electrochemical Analysis
The electrochemical interface represents the critical boundary where electron transfer occurs between electrode, electrocatalyst, and electrolyte. Understanding interfacial dynamics is essential for elucidating structure-property relationships in electrocatalytic systems.
Research Focus
- Real-time monitoring of structural and morphological evolution in electrocatalysts during long-term operation
- Correlation of dynamic changes with catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability
- Advanced operando techniques: differential electrochemical mass spectroscopy (DEMS), high-speed UV-vis spectroelectrochemistry, and electrochemical atomic force microscopy (EC-AFM)
Key Publications
Electrocatalyst Design and Stability
Electrocatalysts facilitate electrochemical transformations at controlled potentials. Optimal performance requires precise surface atomic configurations and adsorption energies that balance catalytic activity with long-term stability. Rational design of active sites is essential for achieving these competing objectives.
Research Focus
- Mechanisms of chemical and electrochemical degradation in electrocatalyst/electrode systems during operation
- Design of transition-metal-based electrocatalysts for selective ammonia electrooxidation and efficient water electrolysis
- Structure-property relationships governing catalyst stability and performance
Key Publications
Electrochemical Methods and Data Analysis
Electrochemical measurements can yield misleading results when based on incorrect theoretical concepts or inappropriate experimental protocols. Rigorous examination of experimental details and standardized data processing using open-access computational tools are essential for reliable scientific interpretation.
Research Focus
- Development of Python-based open-access toolsets for electrochemical data analysis and standardization
- Critical evaluation of common misconceptions in electrochemical analysis and interpretation
- Establishment of best practices for reproducible electrochemical measurements