Spectroscopy Innovations[Alaina Rumrill] Dr. Sarah King, the Neubauer Family Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Chicago, has made significant strides in the field of spectroscopy, particularly in the realm of ultrafast spectroscopy. Spectroscopy studies the interaction between light and atoms or molecules [1]. Dr. King’s research focuses on using ultrafast spectroscopy to explore the dynamics of materials on incredibly short timescales [1].Ultrafast spectroscopy operates by utilizing short laser pulses to excite materials. A subsequent laser pulse is then used to interrogate the material, allowing researchers to study the resulting dynamics [2]. The advantage of these shorter laser pulses is their ability to capture extremely fast processes, occurring on femtosecond (10-15 seconds) or picosecond timescales [1]. This capability is crucial for understanding how energy dissipates in materials, a key factor in the functionality of devices like transistors found in smartphones.A major aspect of Dr. King’s research involves examining the interfacial and electronic structures of materials. These structures refer to the properties at the boundaries between different materials or within crystal structures themselves [1]. Understanding these interfaces is essential for determining how materials function and interact, which directly impacts the development of devices with specific properties. For instance, water splitting, a process that converts H2O into hydrogen and oxygen, happens at the atomic level and is vital for generating hydrogen gas without relying on fossil fuels [3]. Dr. King’s research in this area has focused on materials like hematite (iron oxide), which has a bandgap overlapping with the solar spectrum, making it a potential candidate for water splitting. However, the high overpotential required for hematite’s function and the influence of its interfacial electronic states pose challenges to its efficiency [1].By applying ultrafast spectroscopy, Dr. King’s team can study the fast dynamics of materials, providing insights into energy dissipation and material interactions that are not possible with longer timescale techniques. This research has broad applications, from improving the efficiency of energy storage devices to enhancing the performance of electronic components [1]. Dr. King’s innovative work in spectroscopy continues to push the boundaries of material science, uncovering the intricate relationships between material structure and functionality, and paving the way for new technological advancements.Studying AbroadDr. Sarah King’s academic journey was significantly enriched by her postdoctoral research experience in Germany, funded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation [1]. This opportunity allowed her to work at the Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society in Berlin, an environment renowned for its supportive and collaborative atmosphere. The Max Planck Society is a prestigious German foundation that provides funding for postdoctoral researchers worldwide, offering a unique chance to conduct cutting-edge research with a high degree of autonomy [1].Studying abroad presented Dr. King with numerous benefits, both personally and professionally. Immersing herself in a new culture, meeting diverse people, and developing different perspectives all contributed to her growth as a scientist. These experiences expanded her horizons and provided valuable research expertise, enhancing her understanding of global scientific practices.However, Dr. King also encountered notable differences in research approaches and funding models between Germany and the United States. German funding organizations typically provide longer-term support for more elaborate and large-scale projects [1]. This approach often involves constructing complex instruments and machines to address scientific questions, requiring a profound engineering sense and substantial research support. In contrast, American funding tends to be more competitive and short-term, encouraging researchers to focus on smaller, more specific projects [1].While the benefits of studying abroad are clear, Dr. King emphasizes that it should be a strategic decision based on one’s research needs and career goals. “Studying abroad for studying abroad’s sake is not something I would necessarily recommend,” she advises. “It’s really about whether or not it’s going to be the best thing scientifically for your area of expertise” [1]. Dr. King suggests that students should only pursue international research opportunities if it is essential for their research and will provide valuable expertise that cannot be obtained domestically. If students can achieve their goals within their home country, then it may be more practical to stay.Dr. King’s advice underscores the importance of aligning studying abroad with one’s specific research objectives and professional aspirations. By considering the scientific benefits and ensuring that the experience will enhance their research, students can make informed decisions about whether to pursue international research opportunities. Ultimately, the goal should be to maximize the impact and value of their academic journey, whether at home or abroad.Dr. King’s JourneyDr. Sarah King has traversed a remarkable academic path marked by curiosity and dedication. Growing up in Waterville, Maine, she was instilled with a love for learning, which her mother nurtured by encouraging her endless “why” questions [1]. This early curiosity led her to excel in high school AP classes and pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry at MIT. Her journey continued with a PhD in Chemistry from UC Berkeley, where she worked under Dan Neumark, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society in Berlin, Germany, with Julia Stähler [1].Since joining the University of Chicago as an assistant professor in 2018, Dr. King’s research has been driven by her fascination with the connections between quantum mechanics and thermodynamics, sparked by a pivotal statistical mechanics class during her undergraduate studies. Her early exposure to supportive mentors solidified her passion for physical chemistry, a field known for its collaborative spirit and focus on learning and growth [1].Dr. King’s research interests are centered on the interfacial and nanoscale electronic and atomic structure of materials. She employs ultrafast spectroscopy to probe these dynamics, aiming to uncover how material properties at these scales influence functionality [1]. This work not only advances our understanding of material science but also paves the way for developing new technologies, such as more efficient solar cells and advanced electronics. Her dedication to merging fundamental science with practical applications continues to inspire her students and colleagues alike.Despite her success, Dr. King acknowledges the struggles inherent in the research journey. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between intensity and intellectual curiosity, as the open-ended nature of PhD research can often feel overwhelming. To her students, she offers valuable advice: develop hobbies outside of academia to maintain a healthy work-life balance, seek support from peers and mentors, and stay curious [1]. She believes that it’s essential to recognize that everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, and the science community needs diverse skills and perspectives [1]. Dr. King emphasizes that asking good questions and being open to exploration is key to overcoming challenges and achieving success in scientific pursuits. “Stay curious. Ask better questions. Science is all about asking good questions” [1].Learn MoreIf you’d like to hear more about Dr. Sarah King’s journey in chemistry and her work in spectroscopy, visit us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and many other streaming services to listen to our ChemTalk Podcast with Dr. Sarah King, a Neubauer Family Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Chicago. Find the ChemTalk podcast here.Works Cited[1] King, Sarah. Personal interview. Conducted by Nina Deng and Jasmine Winter. 19 September 2023.[2] R.SWETHA SRI. “Ultra-Fast Laser Spectroscopy: A Review.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Analysis, April 2020. http://ijprajournal.com/issue_certificate/670974.pdf .[3] “Water Splitting.” Water Splitting – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. Accessed July 27, 2024. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/materials-science/water-splitting#:~:text=Water%20splitting%20is%20a%20process,or%20light%20(electromagnetic%20radiation) .
