When studying molecules, I sometimes find myself wondering, “How complex does a molecule need to be for it to become life?” The cells of living organisms are intricately constructed, far beyond the level of even the most complex molecules human beings can currently synthesize. Still, the molecules that emerged at the origin of life, about 4 billion years ago, must have been much simpler. By integrating organic chemistry with optical physics and molecular biology, I believe we can get closer to recreating those primitive molecules. I am particularly interested in novel molecular systems and chemical reactions unlike those found in existing life forms, as well as molecular materials that lie somewhere between living organisms and non-living matter. For example, I aim to develop small molecular machines that can operate inside the human body and other organisms, along with soft electronic and optical devices that move like living things.