Professor Asher's research program is interdisciplinary and brings together scientists in analytical chemistry, biophysical chemistry, materials science and physical chemistry to solve important scientific and technological problems. The research has bothfundamental and applied aspects. The most fundamental research involves calculations of the interactions between light and matter, and the examination of excited states of molecules. Applied work includes the spectroscopic investigation of protein structure and function, and development of a chemical understanding of the gas phase and solid phase reactions occurring during synthesis of diamond in CVD diamond reactors. Another example is the fabrication of new "smart" materials for use in novel optical devices, sensors, and for use in optical computers.