Research

Mechanical Characterization of Cells and Biomaterials

Living materials can naturally perform functions which solve many interesting engineering challenges, such as repairing a material after damage, preventing material fatigue, actively responding to environmental stimuli like heat and light, and even degrading harmful chemicals. The inherent complexity in taking measurements and making predictions about the mechanical behavior of a living material is a substantial barrier to using them in applications, and to a deeper biological understanding of the way living cells behave.

Our approach includes the study of soft materials characterization, experimental methods such as AFM indentation, and imaging techniques.