The Cliffel Research Group in the Department of Chemistry at Vanderbilt University is focused on electroanalytical measurements and sensor development in nanoscale and biological systems, as well as the synthesis and characterization of gold nanoparticles for their potential medical applications. In addition, we develop Photosystem I-based biohybrid solar cells using photosynthetic protein molecules isolated from spinach leaves. Our aim is to increase direct charge transfer between Photosystem I protein molecules and the electrode surface, through the use of small molecule mediators, nano-carbon materials, conductive polymers, and nanoparticles.

directs an innovative research effort in instrumental design and electroanalytical methods applied to nanotechnology and biotechnology.