Research
Our research aims to uncover fundamental links between the microscopic and macroscopic regimes of polymer systems, which is critical for achieving rational polymer design with desired functionality. We use experimental and computational methods to study the underlying physics one molecule at a time, with an emphasis on integrating high-throughput experimentation and data-driven techniques.​​
High-throughput platforms for single-molecule experiments
Single-molecule methods for studying polymer behavior are powerful tools to gain molecular insight and probe heterogeneities within bulk populations. However, the process of studying one molecule at a time is typically slow and laborious. We seek to develop automated platforms to perform single-molecule experiments in high-throughput and with minimal human intervention. This not only enables the generation of large datasets, but also expands on the possibilities of manipulation at the single-molecule level.
Data-driven approaches for learning non-equilibrium dynamics
Processing plays a significant role in determining the final structure and properties of soft materials. Understanding the non-equilibrium behavior of soft matter is crucial for the control of processes to achieve novel material functionalities, yet there is a lack of mechanistic insight into this. We apply data-driven techniques to learn non-equilibrium dynamics of polymers, as observed through high-throughput experiments and simulations. This allows for the prediction and control of polymer conformation under non-equilibrium conditions.
Molecular understanding of general polymers
Single-molecule studies provide critical insight into polymer behavior on the molecular scale. Most studies to date have investigated the behavior of double-stranded DNA as a model polymer, primarily due to its experimental convenience. However, the types of polymers encountered in real-world applications extend far beyond DNA and molecular-level detail of such polymers is lacking. We seek to probe polymers beyond the commonly studied model system and bridge the gap between the model polymer and polymers in practical settings.
