Since joining the faculty of Auburn in 2003, Dr. Kim has focused a research program aimed at advancing the fundamental science of energy harvesting and smart materials for various electro and mechanical devices along with developing new process for novel thin film and nanostructure fabrication. Current research is categorized into the following subjects: 1) thin film materials to advance scientific understanding and to realize novel applications, 2) energy-harvesting materials and devices for autonomous and self powering microsystems, 3) semiconducting nanomaterials and their sensor applications, and 4) various novel thin film processes to develop emerging energy materials.