Research

Smart Biomaterials

We explore materials and processing schemes for next-generation medical implants with enhanced mechanical, chemical, thermal and electronic properties. We combine basic materials chemistry studies with advanced engineering integration efforts to yield bio-integrated systems which are soft, 3D, shape-changing, and/or bioresorbable. Examples include physiologically responsive polymers, soft 3D micro/mesoscale structures, and bioresorbable elastomers. These materials systems also support integration with advanced thin-film and planar technologies (e.g. electronics, microfluidics).

Selected publications:

Bio-integrated Microfluidics

We develop integration schemes for wearable and implantable microfluidic systems. In this project, we are inventing new tools for collecting, analyzing, and modulating the flow of biofluids. An example is wearable soft microfluidics for the collection and analysis of sweat directly on the surface of the skin.

Selected publications:

Soft Neural Interfaces

We develop biocompatible neurotechnologies for recording and modulating neural activity. In this project, we pursue soft neural interface microsystems for applications in biomedical research and clinical medicine. An example is soft microfluidic devices for precision cooling of mm-scale volumes of tissue for peripheral nerve modulation.