His research areas include protein-based multifunctional nanomaterials, targeted drug delivery with triggered and controlled release properties, functional biodegradable materials for biomedical and environmental applications. He has received several competitive and peer-reviewed grants, including Health and Medical Research Fund, General Research Fund, and Environment and Conservation Fund, etc.He has obtained 2 Chinese invention patents and 1 US patent. He won the Gold Medal at the 42nd Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions in 2014. He participated in the publication of 3 books, and has published more than 30 papers included in SCI as the first author or corresponding author. He has been recognized by peers as an active scholar and frequently invited by major conference organizers and overseas institutions to deliver talks. In addition to the academic accomplishments, he has also served on the editorship/editorial boards of several scientific journals in the field. 

•    Stimuli-responsive drug development for anti-cancer therapy: prodrugs.
•    Blood-brain barrier penetrable drug development for the treatment of brain tumor and neurodegenerative diseases.
•    Bioimaging and synergetic therapy: targeted co-delivery of contrast agents and drugs.
•    Behavioral tests of neuroscience: gut-brain axis, learning and memory.
•    Transport barrier biology: ligand-receptor mediated transport through blood-brain barrier; placenta; mucosa; epithelium; and skin.
•    Nano-DHA and its effects on the early brain development and the prevention of perinatal brain injury in preterm birth.
•    Nano/micro-Probiotics and its antidepressive effects.
•    Nanotechnology and nanomaterials of food and agricultural products.
•    Flavor, nutrient, and drug delivery.