Blank Research Group

Welcome!

Our group specializes in ultrafast spectroscopy to investigate fundamental energy transfer and electron dynamics in condensed-phase systems. Our research employs pump-probe techniques to elucidate processes critical for next-generation technologies such as developing enhanced solar energy conversion systems, advanced electrochemical devices, and novel photocatalytic reactions. Current research directions include charge transfer dynamics in dye-sensitized nanocrystalline systems, electron dynamics in ionic liquids, mechanistic studies of photocatalytic transformations (with particular emphasis on defluorination reactions), and the development of two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy. Check out our research page for more.

Group meetings are typically at 2:00 pm on Thursdays for Spring 2026. Let us know if you would like to attend!

Spectroscopy Large Group Meetings are held weekly. Email Tucker Besel (besel015@umn.edu) for more information.