Research Interests  Research in our group is primarily focused on understanding the reaction mechanism of fundamental chemical processes relevant to atmospheres of the planetary systems in and outside of our solar system. Detection of hundreds of exoplanets in the last few years, especially with the Kepler and James Webb missions, has now created opportunities for scientists to study physical and chemical understanding of these potential future habitats for humans. Laboratory experiments simulating such environments are key to complement and supplement the theoretical models proposed to describe composition of the atmospheres. In our laboratory, we study heterogeneous chemistry to study haze and condensate formation by controlling temperature, composition and radiation. Formation, destruction and transformation of small molecules are then characterized by in situ and ex situ spectroscopic methods. Collaborations with computational groups allow in understanding the mechanisms of such reactions. Understanding the drying mechanisms, crystallization, and creep dynamics in salt solutions relies on a thorough understanding of the evaporation kinetics of individual droplets. These processes are of significant interest due to their implications in fields such as astrochemistry, environmental science, and material science. Under different gravity, pressure and humidity conditions, we study mechanisms of drying processes. Furthermore, we collaborate to apply machine learning/artificial intelligence models to predict the chemical composition and identity of salts based only on macroscopic images of dried stains of the salts.