(360c) Break

Bio- and art-inspired bioelectronics for next-generation brain-machine interface

Bioelectronic devices have been very important both as fundamental research tools and as therapeutic avenues for treating brain diseases, disorders, and injuries. I drew inspiration from biological systems and art forms to design and develop a series of bio- and art-inspired electronics and demonstrated their distinctive biomedical applications. I have introduced and developed bioinspired neuron-like electronics, a biomimetic brain-machine interface designed such that the key building blocks mimic the subcellular structural features and mechanical properties of neurons (Nature Materials 2019). I have developed multifunctional vasculature-like electronic scaffolds that guide and longitudinally track neural migration following brain injury (Nature Biomedical Engineering 2023). Moreover, we devised flexible kirigami-inspired electronics that transition from a 2D pattern to a 3D basket-like configuration to enable long-term integration and interrogation of human brain organoids and assembloids in suspension (bioRxiv 2023).

Teaching Interests:

My research journey has spanned across disciplines like chemical engineering, physical science, bioengineering, materials science, and neuroscience. Thus, as a prospective faculty member, I am well equipped to teach a myriad of courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Equipped with interdisciplinary expertise, I am prepared to offer courses spanning general/physical/materials chemistry, nanotechnology, neurotechnology, and the intersection of materials, devices, and neuroscience for undergraduates. For graduate students, I am prepared to delve deeper, teaching advanced, interdisciplinary topics like nanobiotechnology, bioelectronics, biomaterials, and biomedical instrumentation. Looking ahead, I am excited to work with other faculty members to design new courses, especially that delve into the nexus between materials advancements and their influence in neurotechnology and neuroscience, emphasizing the applications of materials and devices in intricate biological systems.