This project investigates the resonant properties of plasmonic-based coated nano-rods impregnated with realistic quantum dot gain materials. Structures are identified for which the structural resonances coincide with the emission resonances of quantum dots in order to boost their radiation and scattering characteristics. Realistic materials (e.g., silver) will be used. Attention will be devoted to the ability of nano antennas to provide directive near- and far-field radiation by using specific structurally asymmetric nano-antenna configurations. The project is mainly numerical and lies within our ongoing research activities in the field of nano-antennas.