Luke Hanley Research Group

University of Illinois Chicago

Can light-driven chemical measurements reveal what is happening on complex biological and material surfaces? The group develops analytical methods based on photoionization, laser ablation and mass spectrometry. Research uses approaches including ultrashort laser pulses and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, sometimes requiring new instruments built in the laboratory. Applications include mass-spectrometry imaging of bacterial biofilms and lithium-ion batteries. The program also develops data-analysis methods for these measurements, connecting surface chemistry with questions in microbiology, bioengineering and materials characterization.