Nonequilibrium dynamics of polymers & soft matter
We directly observe how polymers and soft materials deform, fluctuate, and reorganize far from equilibrium using single-molecule techniques. By linking microscopic dynamics to macroscopic behavior, we seek to uncover the physical principles that govern bulk stress, transport, assembly, self-organization, and emergent material properties.
- Single-polymer dynamics
- Entangled polymers
- Soft interfaces
- Lipid vesicle dynamics
- Active materials
- Capillary suspensions
- Molecular rheology
- Flow-induced instabilities
Dynamic state control in soft materials
We aim to create and control material structure through a process we call materials morphogenesis. Using adaptive flow control, molecular manipulation, and real-time state estimation, we seek to direct the emergence of structure and function in soft matter systems far from equilibrium.
- Materials morphogenesis
- Stokes trap
- Directed assembly
- Molecular manipulation
- Adaptive flow control
- Interaction inference & state estimation
- Hydrodynamic manipulation & flow automation
Molecular design & discovery of functional materials
We seek to understand how molecular information encoded in sequence, structure, and organization gives rise to emergent function. By integrating molecular design, modular synthesis, characterization, and closed-loop discovery, we are creating new systems for ion transport, photocatalysis, and autonomous behavior.
- Sequence-defined synthetic oligomers
- Ion-transporting peptide materials
- Organic photocatalysts
- Self-replicating polymers
- Closed-loop materials discovery
Selected Highlights
Molecular design & closed-loop materials discovery
