Project Description

In creating bio-hybrid metamaterials that leverage the adaptive and sensory features of living organisms along with the predictive power of metasurface design, our goal is to explore and optimize the co-design space for coloration and additional photonic properties. This involves developing bio-hybrid strategies such as microbe co-culture, facilitating self-assembly with nanomaterials, and designing periodic arrays of sub-wavelength structures. By investigating the photonic properties of living optical metamaterials, we aim to understand and enhance their functionality. Combining biological systems with advanced material design principles, this research seeks to develop innovative materials with advanced optical properties, contributing to the development of cutting-edge, adaptive, and functional materials.

Start Date

05/2025

Postdoc Qualifications

A Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field. Background in bio-hybrid materials or biological systems is a plus. Expertise in material synthesis and self-assembly. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Experience in interdisciplinary teams.

Co-advisors

• Tian Li, Mechanical Engineering
• Vladimir Shalaev, Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Jeffrey Youngblood, Materials Engineering

Bibliography

"Developing fibrillated cellulose as a sustainable technological material", Nature volume 590, pages47–56 (2021)

"Materials come alive", Nature Materials volume 21, page379 (2022)

"Structurally colored radiative cooling cellulosic films." Advanced Science 9.26 (2022): 2202061.

"Comparative genomic analysis of Flavobacteriaceae: insights into carbohydrate metabolism, gliding motility and secondary metabolite biosynthesis." BMC genomics 21 (2020): 1-21.