Faculty Spotlight: Grace Han
Every month, we interview a faculty member for our undergraduate newsletter. In March 2022, we spoke to Grace Han, Assistant Professor of Chemistry.
Can you tell us a little about your academic background and your journey to Brandeis?
I got really interested in science in middle/high school and decided to major in chemistry in college, POSTECH, back in Korea where I grew up. I had an amazing opportunity to spend a year at UC Berkeley during my undergrad time, and the research experience there convinced me to pursue graduate studies in the US. I went to MIT for a PhD in chemistry where I studied organic solar cell materials, then I finished my postdoctoral appointment in Materials Science at MIT before joining Brandeis in 2018.
What is a photo-switchable molecular system?
It is a unique class of molecules that change their shape when irradiated. Typically they switch between a flat and a twisted form, and this process is reversible depending on the light you shine on them. What's really nice about them is that they absorb photons, convert them to chemical energy, and store it until they are triggered to release the energy in the form of heat.
Why is this research important? What will it enable in the future?
The photoswitches can harness solar energy during daytime and release it on demand in the dark. This controllable storage feature distinguishes them from conventional solar cells and solar fuel systems that are severely impacted by the intermittent nature of solar irradiation. Therefore, the photoswitches will be an attractive tool that complements the traditional solar technologies and provides daily or seasonal storage of energy.
What excites you about working with Brandeis students?
I really enjoy working with Brandeis undergrads and grad students who are fantastic team players and are very engaged in the purpose of research, which is to address the global energy issues and climate change. I love working with people who share the principle, support each other, and make a very friendly place where you want to be everyday.