Our laboratory focuses on the synthesis, structure and physicochemical characterization of new inorganic solid-state materials. In particular we are focusing on phosphides, antimonides, sulfides and selenides. We are investigating several synthetic strategies to further develop these classes of solid-state materials. The underlying theme in our research is the quest for novel materials with unique technologically useful properties. From an academic perspective we wish to develop the chemistry of these systems. In studying structure-property and composition-property relationships among these new materials, we should be better able to predict and design new materials with desired properties. We have identified several areas, discussed below, in which we take an exploratory approach to new materials followed by a developed understanding of the systems and an ultimate predictability in the chemistry. New Diamond-Like Semiconductors with Novel Magnetic and Optical Properties New semiconductors with unique qualities and combinations of properties are constantly needed. Our laboratory is pursuing the synthesis and study of new, diamond-like semiconductors (DLS) possessing novel magnetic and optical properties. Diamond-like semiconductors (DLS) are normal valence compounds based on the structure of diamond. For example, InP is an ordered variant of the diamond structure in which half the carbon sites are occupied by In and the other half by P in an orderly fashion. Further ordered substitutions on the cation and anion sites lead to ternary and quaternary DLS. Reports of quaternary DLS are scarce and their properties are virtually unexplored. The motivation for further research in DLS is the unique optical and magnetic properties expected.