for their interest in my research and the time and effort they have spent in providing comments to improve the quality of my work. Many collaborators and colleagues have provided helpful feedback and friendly encouragement. A special word of thanks should be given to all present and past former Grassian and Larsen group members for their kind support given to me, as well as for sharing their own expertise during group meetings. We really spent a good time together guys! I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the faculty members in the Department of Chemistry, University of Iowa, for paving me the path to my graduate studies. v I would also thank Janet Kugley for her kind words and valuable support. A note of thank you to the Department of Chemistry IT staff especially Peter Franke, Bryan Ringen, and Frank Turner for their kind assistance provided especially with machine and software issues I face during my work on my research. A special thanks to Central Microscopy Research Facility (CMRF) at the University of Iowa staff member especially Randy Nessler for his support in instrumentation and technical assistance on my research. I would also thankful to The University of Iowa Intensive English Program (IIEP) through which I was able to learn about intensive English classes, cultural, social, and academic orientation in a supportive and collaborative environment. I thank Maureen Burke and many instructors especially Alicia Ambler, Crissa Stephens (we graduated ix