1. Growth mechanism: We are focusing on both the classical and non-classical growth mechanisms of crystals. On classical theories, we have developed a symmetry based kinematic theory (focusing on the preferential growth directions other than the exposed facets, and the properties of the kinematic waves), which could help to understand the shape evolution of nanomaterials. Based on the theory, we proposed a concept of “dissymmetric synthesis” to rationally design chiral particles. On non-classical theories, we have studied the size effect on the growth mechanism and found that when the growth monomers were confined at sub-nanometer scale, polymer-like behaviors would be obtained. Consequently, novel structures could be formed. 2. Electrocatalysis: We have analyzed the general process of electrocatalysis, and proposed a systematic strategy to optimize the performance, which includes 4 aspects: (1) the conductivity of the catalysts; (2) the intrinsic activity of the active centers; (3) the amount or concentration of the active centers; (4) the mass transfer during the reaction. We also carefully studied the structure evolution (self-optimization) under electrochemical conditions in some cases. The reactions of interests include HER, OER, ORR, and CO2RR.