Our Recent Paper Published in Journal of Colloid and Interface Science

Sunghee Lee, Ph.D. • September 12, 2016

Our paper titled “Sensitivity of Cationic Surfactant Templates to Specific Anions in Liquid Interface Crytallization” has been published in Journal of Colloid and Interface Science. This paper is coauthored by Paul Sanstead (’11), Nick Florio (’11), Kiersten Giusto (’12) and Catherine Morris (’12). This paper describes the effect of specific ions on template capability of wide variety of cationic surfactants to nucleate inorganic crystals. Surprisingly we discovered that similar quarternary ammonium surfactants can have differential sensitivity to specific ions, revealing complex interplay among surfactant structure, solute, and oil solvent. Our results should contribute to an increase in understanding of how supramolecular aggregates at the liquid-liquid interface promote the synthesis of particles (e.g., nanoparticles and crystals) having vital importance to nature, technology, health, and industry. Congratulations to the research team!

Celebrating Our Graduating Seniors: A Joyful End-of-Semester Gathering

By Sunghee Lee • May 6, 2025
As the semester comes to a close, Project Symphony members gathered to celebrate a very special milestone - the graduation of seven dedicated seniors who have been an integral part of our team for many years. Their passion, enthusiasm, and hard work have not only driven their individual growth but have also contributed to the collective success of our group. Together, we’ve achieved so much more than any one of us could alone - a beautiful reminder of the power of collaboration and shared purpose...the true meaning of the "Project Symphony"! We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to these remarkable students for the energy and commitment they brought to the lab every day. Your contributions have truly made a difference, and we are proud to have been part of your journey. As you embark on your next chapter, we wish you all the very best in your future endeavors. Remember, once you are a member of the Project Symphony, you are forever part of our family. We look forward to seeing the incredible things you will accomplish ahead! Congratulations and thank you for everything!

Congratulations to Dr. Giancaspro on Earning His Medical Degree!

By Sunghee Lee • May 5, 2025
We are thrilled to celebrate a remarkable milestone for our former Project Symphony group member, Joe, who officially earned their Medical Doctor (MD) degree today for SUNY Upstate Medical University. This achievement marks the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and passion for advancing healthcare. During his time with Project Symphony, Joe demonstrated exceptional commitment to research and a genuine curiosity that inspired us all. We have no doubt that these qualities will make him an outstanding physician and a valuable contributor to the medical community. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Giancaspro on this well-deserved accomplishment. We look forward to seeing all the incredible ways they will impact the world of medicine!

Celebrating Excellence: A Big Congrats to the Project Symphony

By Sunghee Lee • April 17, 2025
I’m so excited to congratulate and celebrate the amazing achievements of our undergraduate research group, the Project Symphony, at this year’s Iona Scholars Day! You all worked incredibly hard, and it really showed. The presentations covered a wide range of interesting and impactful projects that not only highlight your academic skills but also your passion for learning and discovery. Each project was a great example of your creativity and dedication. What stood out the most was how engaged and enthusiastic everyone was about their research. Your energy was contagious, and it was clear you’ve really connected with your topics and learned a lot along the way. A huge shoutout to each of you for your fantastic presentations. Your hard work and passion for research really set you apart, and I’m so proud of everything you’ve accomplished. I’m confident you’ll keep doing great things and making a real impact in your fields. Once again, congrats to everyone on a successful Iona Scholars Day!
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