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exceptional and unforgettable experience in my life. Endless efforts and sleepless nights spent in the dark room searching for light (from light-emitting devices) for the future have made this journey a rewarding research and learning experience. This dissertation is the result of not only mine but many other people’s efforts and could not have been completed without their generous support. Among all the people who have helped me during the past few years, the person who deserves the most of my gratitude is my advisor Prof. Russell J. Holmes. In 2006, he granted me the opportunity to join his research group. Since then, he has sacrificed countless hours and evenings for educating me. All the training and challenges from him gave me the chance to learn how to become a better researcher with critical thinking. The everyday discussions with him always inspired my innovation to attack problems from different angles. His selfless devotion and kind patience in guiding me made this dissertation possible. With his great knowledge in optoelectronics and dedication in teaching, he sets a model of a great advisor. I would also like to thank Prof. Uwe Kortshagen, Dr. Rebecca J. Anthony, and Ting Chen, who provided great support in synthesizing silicon nanocrystal active materials and giving helpful suggestions in my research. This collaboration has helped me develop better communication skills and in-depth technical knowledge on silicon nanocrystals. In addition, immense acknowledgements are necessary for Prof. C. Daniel Frisbie. With his kind permission, I had the access to get trained and use the facilities in his laboratory. His i