This is perhaps the most diverse research theme in our lab, focused on the identification of molecular functions in very short peptides. Examples include the identification of tripeptides with sequence-dependent properties, including self-assembly, compartmentalization, chemical-induced actuation and responsiveness, reactivity and catalysis. The simplicity of these structures demonstrates how sequence has a profound impact on molecular conformations that in turn dictates the properties. A range of applications are explored with collaborators, in the areas of energy harvesting, cosmetics, food science and biomedicine.