Lina Quan
Assistant Professor
Caudill 122linaquan@unc.edu
Group Website
Research Interests
Semiconductor materials, perovskites, ultrafast spectroscopy, pump-probe spectroscopy
Research Synopsis
Our research aims to uncover the fundamental physical principles governing organic–inorganic solid-state materials and to translate this knowledge into advances in energy and optical technologies. We take an interdisciplinary approach that integrates chemistry, physics, and materials science to establish clear relationships between crystal structure and optical, electronic, and magnetic properties.
By understanding and controlling structure–property correlations, we develop material platforms that address next-generation challenges in photovoltaics, ferroelectrics, ferromagnetics, spintronics, photonics, and display technologies.
A central strength of our program is cross-disciplinary training. Students and postdoctoral researchers gain hands-on experience in both materials synthesis and advanced characterization, including single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD), ultrafast pump–probe spectroscopy, and optical polarization measurements. This integrated training prepares group members to become future leaders at the interface of solid-state chemistry, condensed matter physics, and optoelectronic materials.
Professional Background
Ph.D. Ewha Womans University (2011-2016) and University of Toronto (2014-2017); Postdoctoral fellow, UC Berkeley (2018-2020); DOE Early Career Award, 2024; NSF CAREER Award, 2025
Research Group
News & Publications
A Department of Chemistry study is shedding light on how a special class of materials called perovskites could help improve future optical technologies, from advanced sensors to telecommunications devices.
When perovskites are hit with light, they can form “polar states” that last an unusually long time—up to microseconds, or millionths of a second.