Institution:

IISc, Bengaluru

Current Positions:

Professor, Solid State and Structural Chemistry Unit

EDUCATIONAL PROFILE

Doctoral Fellow, University of Wuppertal, Germany (2000-2004)
CNSI-HP Post-Doctoral Fellow, University of California, Los Angeles (2004-2006)

Biographical details

Our group’s research primarily focused on investigating various aspects of molecular electronics, encompassing organic photovoltaics, light-emitting diodes, and field-effect transistors. We adopt an interdisciplinary approach that involves synthesizing multifunctional conjugated polymers and oligomers possessing unique properties. Working at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and materials engineering, we explore the characteristics of these materials. Leveraging molecular structures, we employ molecular design and robust synthetic strategies to finely adjust and optimize the desired properties.

Our research group is currently dedicated to the development of π-conjugated polymers and oligomers for various applications, including:

Organic/Perovskite Solar Cells: We are actively engaged in the synthesis of π-conjugated materials with optimized energy levels, strong light absorption, and efficient charge transport properties. Our aim is to enhance the performance and stability of organic and perovskite solar cells.

Singlet Fission: Our focus lies in exploring the potential polymers and oligomers for singlet fission, a process that converts one photon into two excitons. By designing materials that exhibit efficient singlet fission, we aim to improve the efficiency of solar energy conversion and enable the utilization of high-energy photons.

Electrochemical Energy Storage Devices: Our research involves the design and synthesis of π-conjugated materials for electrochemical energy storage devices, such as batteries and supercapacitors. We aim to develop materials with high charge storage capacity, excellent stability, and rapid charge/discharge rates to enhance the performance and longevity of energy storage systems.

Organic Light-emitting Diodes (OLEDs): We are actively working on the development of π-conjugated materials with efficient electroluminescent properties for OLED applications. Our efforts are focused on improving device efficiency, color purity, and stability by optimizing the molecular structures and energy levels of the materials.

Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence (TADF): Our investigations revolve around utilizing conjugated materials with thermally activated delayed fluorescence in display technologies and efficient lighting. Through the design of materials that exhibit efficient TADF, we aim to achieve high-efficiency emission by effectively utilizing both singlet and triplet excitons.

Field-Effect Transistors: Our research includes the development of materials for field-effect transistors (FETs). We strive to design materials with high charge carrier mobility, low operating voltages, and exceptional stability to enable the fabrication of high-performance FET devices for applications in flexible electronics and integrated circuits.

Through our work in these diverse areas, we aim to advance the field of molecular electronics and contribute to the development of efficient and sustainable electronic devices for energy conversion and information processing.