The Florida State University

The Office of Graduate Studies has verified and approved the above named committee members. iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Here, I would like to express my gratitude to all the people supporting me during the whole process to finish my thesis. It was possible to finish this research because of help and guidance of various people. First, I express my very sincere thanks to my former advisor, Dr. Kartik Pashupati. He guided me to find my interests, select the topic and outline the basic structure of my thesis. Secondly, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my advisor, Dr. Steven McClung, for his patient, friendly, and unfailing support during the whole process to finish this research. He trusted me enough to let me follow my own interests and guided me to overcome all the obstacles I met in the process of finishing my research. Felipe Korzenny for their supports, critical suggestions and advice. I was honored to work under their supervision. I also thank to my friends I have always called " Tallahassee family " Taejin, Woomi, Seungjin, Philippe who have been always there for me, showed their love, encouragement, great advice and support to me in my progress toward the completion of this journey. Last but not least, I specially thank my mom and dad for always believing in me, supporting me. Mom and dad, you are always there for me, give me strength, and make me believe in myself. Thank you and I love you both with all my heart.