The minimization and functionization of systems are two focuses in recent technology development. By controlling its physical dimensions and interface properties, an artificial structure is possible to exhibit distinct properties different from those carried by its compositions.  Since it is the electronic structure that governs the physical and chemical properties of a material, members in this group utilize synchrotron-based microscopy, photoemission spectroscopy, and x-ray absorption spectroscopy to explore the novel properties and electronic structure of multiple systems prepared under various extreme conditions (dimension, structure, surface, and pressure, for example).