Transparent hybrid organic-inorganic ureasil xerogels with embedded PbS nanoparticles were prepared by exposing the xerogels doped with lead (11) nitrate to hydrogen sulphide atmosphere. Absorbance spectrum of the nonocomposites showed well defined peaks at 560 nm and 370 nm attributed to 1s(v) - 1s(c) and 1s(v) - 2p(c) exciton transitions, respectively. After four days of thermal treatment at 50 degrees C under argon atmosphere the obtained materials showed enhanced photoluminescence response in the near infra-red region.