(12al) Engineering Surfaces through Sequential Stop-Flow Photopatterning

This poster describes the design and application of a novel experimental setup to combine light-mediated and flow chemistry for the fabrication of hierarchical surface-grafted polymer brushes. Using light-mediated, surface initiated controlled radical polymerization and post-functionalization via well-established, and highly efficient chemistries, polymer brush films of previously unimaginable complexity are now shown to be accessible. This methodology allows full flexibility to exchange both lithographic photomasks and chemical environments insitu, readily affording multidimensional thin film architectures, all from uniformly functionalized substrates.

Research Interests:  

Many diseases of the human nervous system, e.g., Parkinsonâ??s, Alzheimerâ??s, and Huntingtonâ??s, occur as a result of the progressive loss of structure and function of neurons. Charged proteins â?? naturally occurring polyelectrolytes and polyampholytes â?? have been identified as key components to the development and evolution of such neurodegenerative processes. My research interests focus on synthetically mimicking and studying the complex electrostatic interactions inherent to such ampholytic polymer architectures. Beyond these fundamental studies, charged macromolecules and their predicted response to electric fields provide fascinating routes towards advanced materials with tunable and switchable properties.

Teaching Interests:  

Education is a continuous and essential component of the academic research environment. I value the opportunity to teach and learn from my students as one of the most important and exciting responsibilities in academia. I want to not only transfer knowledge, but also ignite a passion, a strong internal desire to learn and improve. I wish to emphasize critical thinking & scientific questioning, while conveying the joy of discovery, and helping students develop both professionally & personally.