# Understanding How Ligands Dictate Nanocrystal Shape Using Force Spectroscopy

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of California-San Diego (CA) · $552,380

## Abstract

With the support of the Chemical Measurement and Imaging Program and the Macromolecular, Supramolecular & Nanochemistry Program, both in the Division of Chemistry, Professor Andrea R. Tao of the University of California, San Diego, will develop new methods and tools to understand how molecules stick and arrange themselves on nanoscale particles. While these particles are used in a variety of applications ranging from medicine to chemical processing, little is known about how molecules interact with their surfaces and how these interactions can lead to particles with specific geometric shapes. Professor Tao will study how these molecular interactions change when particles  are in either air or liquid, which should address long-standing questions about how shaped particles form during chemical synthesis. This project will provide unique research opportunities for undergraduates, graduates, and high school students to learn about nanomaterials and surface chemistry. This project will contribute directly to workforce development in nanomaterials, materials processing, and advanced characterization tools. This project will also support outreach efforts and student exchanges with two partner R2 institutions.

Shape-directing ligands such as surfactants, polymers, and chiral molecules play a critical role in directing the nucleation and growth of anisotropic nanocrystals (NCs). This project will develop a new understanding of how molecular agents and surface ligands influence the 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2506032
- **Awardee organization:** University of California-San Diego (CA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** UYTTZT6G9DT1
- **PI:** Andrea R Tao
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** NANO NON-SOLIC SCI & ENG AWD
- **Estimated total:** $552,380
- **Funds obligated:** $552,380
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2506032

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2506032, Understanding How Ligands Dictate Nanocrystal Shape Using Force Spectroscopy. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2506032. Licensed CC0.

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*[NSF Awards dataset](/datasets/nsf-awards) · CC0 1.0*