Introduction

The research of our group focuses on Soft Active Materials especially those consisting both solid and liquid. Our research is at the interface between mechanics and materials chemistry. Our studies span from fundamental mechanics to novel applications. We take integrated approach of experiment and theory. The current stage of our research includes: (1) chemomechanical modeling of soft materials (2) multi-scale mechanical characterization of soft materials, and (3) design and fabrication of new dynamic adaptive multi-functional materials for various applications. With the tools and knowledge generated from these studies, we also explore the phenomenologically similar but structurally more complex nature soft living systems, such as cells, tissues and organs.