The Crespo Research Group
Welcome to the Crespo Group Page!
The research conducted by Professor Crespo's group focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind light-induced phenomena in molecules, biopolymers, and cells, particularly those relevant to photochemistry and photobiology. Our primary goal is to explore these processes at the molecular level and leverage this fundamental knowledge to create applications in cancer therapy, bioimaging, and single-cell spectroscopy. Currently, we are working on developing small molecules that act as photosensitizers and photomedicines for treating cancer cells and enhancing cell bioimaging. Additionally, we are creating photoswitches and photonic materials for various applications.
The research efforts are both interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary, encompassing a variety of chemistry fields (as mentioned in the Reesearch Interests section below). The group emphasizes professional development, providing training for undergraduates, graduates, and postdoctoral associates in innovative research techniques and the use of state-of-the-art technologies. Students participating in these scientific activities gain expertise in a wide range of analytical techniques, including high-performance liquid chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry, circular dichroism, fluorescence, ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, and time-resolved instrumentation on timescales ranging from femtoseconds to microseconds. Additionally, they learn about confocal microscopy, high-resolution and super-resolution spectroscopy, as well as computational methods for both ground and excited states. These research experiences help students integrate into mainstream scientific activities and contribute to the global scientific community.
The Crespo Research Group is committed to merit-based career development and values the diversity of our individual identities, including race, ethnicity, gender, country of origin, sexual orientation, and gender identity. We believe that celebrating our differences allows us to learn from one another as we work together to train the next generation of researchers, educators, and professionals. Our goal is to tackle challenging research problems and enhance the understanding of chemistry and related fields.
Research Interests: Analytical, Biophysical, Environmental, Organic Synthesis, Physical, and Quantum Chemistry, Photochemistry, Ultrafast Spectroscopy, Time-Resolved Electronic Spectroscopy, Chemical Dynamics and Kinetics, Small-Molecule Therapeutics, Cell Viability, Cell Bioimaging, Photodynamic Therapy, Photochemotherapy, Photomedicines, Computational Chemistry, Photonic Materials, Single-Cell Super Resolution Spectroscopy.
Funding: ACS-PRF, DoD, and NSF.
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