(4u) Data-Driven Discovery and Design of Biomacromolecular Dynamics

Hierarchical structures of soft nano-material building blocks have evolved to enable life, creating cells and extracellular matrices from lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and other organic molecules. Existing research on such self-assembled materials is predominantly static, focusing on equilibrium structures and time-independent parameters. However, the dynamic nature of soft matter plays a significant role in function. My research group will fill this gap, “pressing play” on the static view to replace the picture of biomacromolecular assemblies with a movie. Specifically, we will improve biomaterials and advance our understanding of biological phenomena by harnessing nanoscale dynamics through the lens of polymer physics using a data-driven, synergistic blend of computational and experimental methods. Complementary expertise with both in silico and in vitro experiments provides me with a unique perspective from which my research group will characterize soft matter dynamics from angstrom to micron scales. My understanding of limitations and strengths in each technique will allow simulation and scattering tools to complement each other and enable internal cross-validation.

The initial research directions of my group will:

(1) Investigate dynamics in liquid-liquid phase separated systems to better understand complex coacervation and membraneless organelles.

(2) Improve drug delivery by balancing molecular stability with dynamic behavior required for efficient transfection.

(3) Create stimuli-responsive bio-inks using dynamically associating polymers.

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation techniques will leverage my graduate research in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering: Program in Polymers and Soft Matter at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology under the guidance of Alfredo Alexander-Katz. Through my PhD, I explored the molecular structure and dynamics of bio-inspired synthetic random heteropolymers using MD simulations.

X-ray and neutron scattering and spectroscopic techniques will draw upon my experience as an ASEE Engineering Postdoctoral Fellow and UW Data Science Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Washington under the guidance of Lilo D. Pozzo. I have leveraged these techniques to study molecular exchange in non-viral drug delivery vectors and characterize other soft matter systems in my postdoctoral research.

Complete list of publications: https://tinyurl.com/shilburg

Teaching Interests:

Playing a role in cultivating the next generation of engineers and leaders is one of my primary reasons for pursuing an academic career. I am passionate about creating an inclusive environment in which students learn the scientific knowledge needed for a career in Chemical Engineering as well as the problem solving, communication, and teamwork they will use in any future pursuits. I have completed several certifications to provide effective and inclusive instruction (including MIT’s Kaufman Teaching Certificate Program and the EdX Inclusive STEM Teaching Project). Through these experiences as well as time in both industry and academia, I have developed a unique perspective which emphasizes effective communication and aims to create a sense of belonging for all trainees. I am well-equipped to teach a multitude of chemical engineering courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. I would relish the opportunity to create engaging introduction courses to draw interest to and prepare students for their academic journeys as well as advanced courses on thermodynamics, soft matter, simulation, and characterization.

Service and Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

Fostering inclusiveness and broadening access to STEM enables a greater diversity of thought that enhances scientific progress. This perspective will be incorporated in my research group management, teaching curricula, and participation within my broader community. At each of my positions, I have taken an active role in improving the well-being of my peers and trainees, creating and serving on committees which focus on the student experience. As a professor, I will use my platform to continue this work. I will work to create an intentionally inclusive environment serving students from a wide variety of backgrounds with varied learning styles and needs, to create better engineers and a better community. Finally, I will continue efforts beyond the institutional community, working with state science and engineering fairs and organizing K-12 outreach activities focused on providing opportunities for under-served local communities.