Surface Chemistry-Directed Crystallization of Organic Materials

This project investigates how chemically functionalized surfaces affect the crystallization behavior of dotriacontane (DCT), a model organic material. Using self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), we systematically modify surface chemistry to study its influence on crystal formation, growth, and morphology.

Undergraduate researchers will initially focus on preparing and modifying surfaces with different chemical functionalities. As they gain experience, students will progressively learn to deposit DCT films and perform controlled crystallization experiments. Their experimental work will directly support ongoing investigations into the relationship between surface chemistry and molecular organization.

Name of research group, project, or lab
Soft Matter Innovation Lab (SMIL+E aka The Burks Lab)
Website
https://softmatterlab.nd.edu/
Why join this research group or lab?

This opportunity offers hands-on experience in materials science, surface chemistry, and experimental research. Students will work closely with a graduate researcher who will provide direct mentorship, individualized laboratory training, and guidance in developing scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Our goal is to help students grow into confident, capable, and increasingly independent researchers. Students will be encouraged to ask questions, understand the scientific motivation behind their experiments, and actively engage in discussions of research findings.

The project is part of an ongoing investigation with the potential to contribute to peer-reviewed scientific publications. As students develop their skills and interests, opportunities for greater experimental responsibility and scientific contributions may become available.

Logistics Information:
Project categories
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Student ranks applicable
First Year
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Graduate Student
Student qualifications
  • Undergraduate student studying chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, or a related discipline.
  • Some chemistry or laboratory coursework preferred; prior research experience is not required.
  • Reliable, consistent, and committed to careful laboratory practices.
  • Strong attention to detail and willingness to follow experimental protocols.
  • Scientific curiosity, enthusiasm for learning, and openness to feedback.
  • Willingness to develop new skills and progressively take on greater responsibility.
Hours per week
2 credits / 6-12 hours
3 credits / 12+ hours
Compensation
Research for Credit
Number of openings
1
Techniques learned

Students will receive hands-on training in:

  • Laboratory safety, chemical handling, and solution preparation.
  • Surface preparation and functionalization using self-assembled monolayers (SAMs).
  • Preparation of organic thin films and controlled thermal crystallization experiments.
  • Experimental documentation, reproducibility, and laboratory best practices.
  • Scientific reasoning, troubleshooting, and interpretation of experimental results.

Students will also gain exposure to advanced materials characterization techniques, such as atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and surface spectroscopy, through discussions of experimental results and ongoing research.

Project start
Spring 2027 Semester
Contact Information:
Mentor
Gabriel Burks
gburks2@nd.edu
Assistant Professor
Name of project director or principal investigator
Gabriel Burks
Email address of project director or principal investigator
gburks2@nd.edu
1 sp. | 0 appl.
Hours per week
2 credits / 6-12 hours (+1)
2 credits / 6-12 hours3 credits / 12+ hours
Project categories
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering