Benjamin T. Diroll

Dr. Benjamin Diroll’s research focuses on the synthesis and characterization of inorganic colloidal nanocrystals and on understanding their optical, electronic and thermal properties.

Diroll uses time-resolved spectroscopy and other advanced characterization techniques to investigate how nanomaterials respond to light, how energy moves within and between nanoscale structures, and how their properties can be controlled through material composition and design. His research includes semiconductor nanocrystals and nanoplatelets, quantum dots and quantum shells, with potential applications in optoelectronics, infrared imaging and fast, efficient X-ray detection. His work on quantum-shell scintillators has demonstrated their potential for high-speed X-ray imaging while maintaining strong light output.

Diroll’s research also examines heat transfer at interfaces between organic and inorganic materials, helping advance understanding of how nanoscale structure influences energy transport. By combining materials synthesis with detailed spectroscopic measurements, he works to establish relationships between nanomaterial structure and performance.

Diroll joined Argonne’s Center for Nanoscale Materials in 2015. He has contributed to research spanning nanomaterial synthesis, ultrafast spectroscopy and the development of materials for optical and imaging technologies.

Diroll earned his doctorate in chemistry from the University of Pennsylvania.