Selective uptake and modulation of nanometal surface energy transfer from quantum dot to Au nanoparticle across lipid bilayer of liposomes

•Time-dependent partitioning of CdTe QDs and Au NPs into DPPC liposomes.•Nanometal surface energy transfer (NSET) from liposome encapsulated QDs to Au NPs across the lipid bilayer of DPPC liposomes.•Confocal laser scanning microscopy reveals the formation of AuLipQD ternary nanocomposites upon 24 h of equilibration.•Efficiency of NSET decreases from 62 % in bulk aqueous medium to 24 % in AuLipQD nanocomposite.