What do stained glass, pregnancy tests, and the energy crisis have in common? Gold nanoparticles! In this one-minute thesis, Carly Graverson explains how these tiny particles, and the molecules stuck to them, can unlock powerful new applications in medicine, diagnostics, and green chemistry. From lab-scale breakthroughs to real-world solutions, Carly’s research at Rice University is all about making chemistry work smarter for a more sustainable future.