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 last few years, especially with the Kepler mission, has now created opportunity for scientists to study physical and chemical understanding of these potential future habitats for humans. Laboratory experiments simulating such environments are key to compliment 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 spectroscopic methods. Collaborations with computational groups allow in understanding the mechanisms of such reactions. Other research interest include characterization of solid and liquid waste in landfill sites and laboratory utilizing mass spectrometry and spectroscopic techniques.