(3cd) Transforming Advanced Materials through Smart Molecular Design

Research Interests

As natural resources become limited and pollution from traditional thermoset plastic materials becomes rampant, the synthesis of smart and dynamic advanced materials represents a needed solution to the challenges we face today. The ability to design materials with specified properties, precise performance and environmentally sustainable impacts is necessary to solve many of the National Academy of Engineering’s grand challenges for the 21^st century.

My research interests hence broadly lie in polymer chemistry and engineering research. My research approach starts from fundamental physical and organic chemical principles such as small molecule kinetics and monomer syntheses that in turn inform macromolecular design. A deep understanding of the mechanical properties of these macromolecules through various rheological and spectroscopic techniques are further essential to improve the materials and target them for their desired application. My lab will specifically take advantage of: (1) light, which can afford spatial and temporally control over monomer reactivity, material properties, and post polymerization functionalization; (2) "Click"chemistry reactions in polymers and hydrogels for facile, rapid, and orthogonal syntheses of these materials; (3) dynamic covalent chemistry as a tool to afford novel properties to traditionally thermosetting polymers and composites. Overall applications of my research include recyclable and sustainable materials, 3D printing resins, and biomaterials.

Teaching Interests

My teaching interests lie in developing and improving core chemical engineering and elective chemistry classes through the use of evidence-based learning and multidisciplinary approaches to teaching through experiential learning. Specifically, I am interested in developing classes that utilize peer instruction, cooperative-based learning and inquiry-based engineering labs. My research in materials science, polymer composites for energy and healthcare applications, photochemistry, and dynamic networks has prepared me to teach electives in polymer technology and manufacturing. Finally, I am extremely interested in developing innovative interdisciplinary electives that combine both the arts and STEM fields through collaborating with professors of other departments.

I furthermore realize the importance of having an inclusive classroom, and a curriculum that emphasizes diversity of learning styles. I will make sure to make my students understand that varied opinions and approaches should be celebrated and that I value different viewpoints. My classroom will be one that encourages participation and emphasizes the importance of diversity. I will moreover make sure to highlight researchers, both past and present that have and are currently contributing to the fields of chemistry who come from different backgrounds. I will moreover work hard to ensure that every student, regardless of background, can and will succeed in my classroom.