We are interested in quantifying intermolecular forces between a variety of surfaces, such as minerals, metals, and polymers, and applying those insights in (1) designing energy efficient desalination membranes, (2) unraveling why low salinity water enhances oil recovery, and (3) developing preventive coatings against biofouling and scaling. We are also very much interested in exploring chemical and physical phenomena at interfaces of water with hydrophobic media, such as electron and proton transfers and specific ion effects.