Research

Interdisciplinary research at the interface of Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, and Biology.

Area 1. Disease-sensing biomaterials

Long-lasting polymeric probes for sensing peroxynitrite (ONOO-), an important biomarker for oxidative stress, is widespread across diseases and disorders. These macromolecular platforms are selective and exhibit tunable responsiveness, enabling precise spatiotemporal mapping and therapeutic treatment in complex biological environments.

Fluorogenic crosslinks generated through photoactivation of 2,5-diaryl tetrazoles to generate fluorescent materials from non-fluorescent precursors. We are exploring the utility of these optical signatures for strategically locking material assemblies, quantitative readouts of crosslinks and defects, and rapid functionalization of pre-made polymers.

Introducing mechanical buckling or stimuli-responsive chemistries, developed in Areas 1 and Area 2, can transform previously inert conventional materials (e.g. PDMS). We are exploring straight-forward surface modification strategies using minimal amounts of exotic chemistries, in order to produce structurally-responsive and higher-order behaviors with the bulk material.

Specializations in Our Lab

Primary Areas of Interest

Synthesis

This subgroup studies the chemical synthesis of new stimuli-responsive moieties, macromonomers, and their polymers.

Materials Characterization

This subgroup investigates material properties at the nano-, meso-, and macro-scale. We characterize the chemical and structural behaviors of our structurally dynamic platforms.

Device Engineering

This subgroup designs and fabricates substrates and devices for wearable and implantable applications. Key efforts include surface functionalization of elastomers, film coatings, and encapsulation of sensing modules for quantitative analog and/or digital readouts.