# Tailored Precursor Reactivity for the Colloidal Synthesis and Surface Functionalization of Phase-Pure Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Nanocrystals

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of California-San Diego (CA) · $439,063

## Abstract

With the support from the Macromolecular, Supramolecular, and Nanochemistry Program in the Division of Chemistry, Professor Alina Schimpf of the University of California, San Diego will develop new methods to synthesize and modify nanoscale materials known as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). These materials have the potential to advance technologies in electronics, catalysis, and quantum information science. A key challenge in this field is reliably producing TMDs with a specific internal arrangement of atoms, known as the crystal phase, which strongly influences their properties. This research will uncover the role of precursors and growth conditions in the formation of different crystal phases. Additionally, these studies will enable the development of new strategies to tailor the surfaces of these materials, expanding their tunability. Prof. Schimpf’s laboratory will also use these studies to provide research opportunities for undergraduate students. These efforts will support workforce development by offering applied laboratory training that cultivates skills essential for careers in science and engineering.

With the support from the Macromolecular, Supramolecular, and Nanochemistry Program in the Division of Chemistry, Professor Alina Schimpf of the University of California, San Diego is using colloidal chemistry to develop strategies for phase-tunable syntheses and surface functionalizations of group-VI transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). This research a

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2506165
- **Awardee organization:** University of California-San Diego (CA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** UYTTZT6G9DT1
- **PI:** Alina M Schimpf
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** REU SUPP-Res Exp for Ugrd Supp, NANO NON-SOLIC SCI & ENG AWD
- **Estimated total:** $439,063
- **Funds obligated:** $439,063
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2506165

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2506165, Tailored Precursor Reactivity for the Colloidal Synthesis and Surface Functionalization of Phase-Pure Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Nanocrystals. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2506165. Licensed CC0.

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