Materials Science · Bio-Inspired Design · Micro/Nano Fabrication
We study how biological surfaces achieve remarkable functions and translate the underlying principles into new materials.
We are curious about how remarkable properties emerge in natural materials. Across biological surfaces, micro- and nanoscale structures are precisely organized to control how light is scattered, how liquids move, and how surfaces adhere to and release from other materials. We seek to uncover the fundamental physics underlying these structure–function relationships and use them as blueprints for material innovation. By bridging biology and advanced manufacturing, we aim to create new materials with advanced optical, wetting, and mechanical properties to address important real-world challenges.
We investigate how three-dimensional biological structures manipulate light through scattering, absorption, and emission. Building on our work on leafhopper brochosomes, we design and manufacture architected materials for broadband antireflection, information encoding, and multispectral camouflage.
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We investigate how micro- and nanoscale surface structures affect wetting physics, droplet impact, and liquid repellency. Water-repellent insects often rely on densely packed nanotextures that differ from the sparse surface structures favored by conventional design principles. Our work showed that these insects exploit a different strategy to achieve non-wetting state by leveraging line tension. Inspired by this mechanism, we combine interfacial physics, advanced nanofabrication, and surface chemistry to develop robust superhydrophobic materials that retain their function under extreme conditions.
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Inspired by the slippery surfaces of pitcher plants, we develop low-adhesion interfaces that repel liquids, viscoelastic solids, and biological contaminants. We investigate how interfacial lubrication, surface chemistry, and material mechanics work together to minimize adhesion and fouling. By reducing the water and cleaning chemicals required for sanitation and maintenance, these scalable materials offer new opportunities for sustainable water use and resource-efficient technologies.
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Principal Investigator
Assistant Professor
Department of Materials Science and Engineering
Dr. Your Name is a materials scientist working at the intersection of bio-inspired materials, surface science, and micro/nano fabrication. His research focuses on understanding structure-function relationships in natural materials and translating these principles into engineered surfaces with advanced wetting, optical, and interfacial functions.
Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering, XXX University (2014-2020)
B.S., Chemistry, XXX University (2009-2013)
Office: Room 123, XXX Building
Email: yourname@university.edu
Open Postdoctoral Position
Ph.D. Positions Available
Master's Student Position Available
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
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The lab website is launched.
New research directions in bio-inspired optical and wetting materials are underway.
We welcome inquiries from prospective students and collaborators.
We welcome motivated researchers and students who are curious about how nature works and interested in creating new materials through science and engineering. Our research is highly interdisciplinary, bringing together materials science, chemistry, physics, mechanics, surface and interface science, and micro/nano manufacturing. We value curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and a willingness to explore ideas across traditional disciplinary boundaries.
We welcome inquiries from prospective postdoctoral researchers with diverse academic and research backgrounds. Applicants with experience in materials science, chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, micro/nano fabrication, advanced manufacturing, or related fields are encouraged to contact us. Researchers whose expertise complements or expands the current directions of the group are also especially welcome.
Prospective Ph.D. and master's students from a broad range of backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Relevant fields include, but are not limited to, materials science, chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, and related disciplines. We are particularly interested in students who are motivated by fundamental scientific questions and eager to work across disciplines.
Graduate admissions are conducted through the university's official admissions process. Interested students are encouraged to contact us in advance to discuss potential research interests and opportunities.
Undergraduate students who are interested in research are warmly encouraged to get in touch. Previous research experience is not required. We welcome students from materials science, chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, and other related majors who are curious, responsible, and willing to learn.
Undergraduate researchers may participate in ongoing projects, learn experimental and analytical techniques, and gradually develop independent research skills.
Interested students and researchers are welcome to contact us at pi@university.edu. Please briefly introduce your academic background and research interests, indicate the type of position you are seeking, and attach your CV when appropriate. Inquiries in either Chinese or English are welcome.
your.email@university.edu
Department of Materials Science and Engineering
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