Research in the Nanochemistry Department is geared towards the rational synthesis of new multifunctional materials with engineered properties by combining the tools of solid-state chemistry, molecular chemistry, and nanochemistry. We aim at creating function from both atomic-scale structure and nanoscale morphology, with a strong emphasis on exploring structure-property-activity relationships in functional materials based on a variety of diffraction, spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Specifically, we invoke concepts of classical solid state synthesis, soft chemistry and directed self-assembly to develop new two-dimensional systems, porous frameworks, photonic nanostructures and layered heterostructures with application potential in sensing, catalysis, as well as photo- and electrochemical energy conversion and –storage.