The Kotakoski research group has a long history in atomic-scale structural manipulation of lowdimensional materials using electron and ion irradiation, combining experimental materials physics, atomic-resolution transmission electron microscopy and spectroscopy, and computational physics. The latest research directions range from advanced microscopy techniques (in situ imaging, 4DSTEM) and high energy-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy to creating atomically tailored structures embedded in solid state matrices to pave the way for the second quantum revolution and green energy production and storage.