Multiscale Biological & functional Materials
We conduct fundamental research into how structure and composition dictate the mechanical and functional behavior of materials, particularly biological systems and their synthetic counterparts. Our core mission is to understand how nature integrates architecture and chemistry to achieve robust properties like strength, toughness, and adaptability.
We draw foundational insights from models such as arthropod exoskeletons. We also leverage synthetic materials as tools to understand nature's design principles and establish new principles for material behavior. Our work explores both bio-inspired and bio-based materials, elucidating their fundamental structure–property relationships. By combining diverse experimental approaches across scales, we aim to profoundly expand the basic understanding of structure–function relationships, thus paving the way for future advancements in structural materials and sustainable technologies.
Research
Structure-Function Relationships in Biological Exoskeletons
We study the hierarchical organization and chemical composition of arthropod exoskeletons to uncover the design rules that govern their robust mechanical performance. Our focus lies in connecting multiscale architecture, interfacial chemistry, and material gradients to toughness, strength, and damage tolerance across environmental conditions.
Hierarchical Materials Through Additive Manufacturing
We design and synthesize material systems for 3D printing that enable control over structure and function across length scales. Through tailored material chemistries and print paths, we aim to integrate mechanical robustness, multifunctionality, and processability—translating biological design principles into scalable synthetic systems.
Sustainable and Living Materials Systems
We investigate materials derived from biomass to understand and engineer their structural organization and functional behavior. Our goal is to develop environmentally responsible materials that respond to their surroundings or evolve over time, merging sustainability with adaptive performance.
