We are interested in developing innovative protocols (i. e. materials synthesis and fabrication techniques) at the convergence of top-down and bottom-up approaches for directed assembly of complex, multi-functional structures from polymers, gels, biomaterials, and organic-inorganic hybrids.  By coupling of chemistry, fabrication and external stimuli, we address the fundamental questions at surface-interface in a precisely controlled environment, and study the structure-property relationship, which in turn could lead to the next generation’s computers, communication networks and biomedical devices.

Special interests involve synthesis and engineering of well-defined polymers and inorganic materials with controlled size, shape, and morphology over multiple length scales, study of their unique surface, optical, and mechanical properties, surface functionalization and dynamic tuning on topographic surfaces, biomimetic mineralization on functional polymer templates, directed-assembly of nano- and micro-objects (particles, rods) in solutions and on patterned surfaces, patterning and assembly of complex structures via harnessing elastic instability.

Research topics:

• Wetting, (bio)adhesion, and friction on topographic polymer surfaces
• Surface patterning and functionalization using polymer brushes
• Dynamically tuning of microfluidics on both planar and topographic surfaces
• Nano/micropatterning of periodic 2D/3D polymeric structures
• Directed deposition of inorganic nanoparticles on structured polymer templates
• Harnessing of elastic instabilities in polymer gels
• 2D and 3D photonic crystals
• Tuanble microlens array

Current Fundings:

• National Science Foundation (NSF)
• Office of Naval Research (ONR)
• Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR)
• Benjamin Franklin Technology Partners/Nanotechnology Institute (NTI)
• Johnson & Johnson