Research

Our research is dedicated to the development of bio-integrated multifunctional microsystems at the intersection of living and artificial systems. Through synergistic efforts of mechanical design, mechanics analysis, soft electronics, programmable materials, and advanced manufacturing, our work aims to seamlessly connect artificial systems with biological entities. The microsystems arising from our research embody a harmonious blend of intricate 3D geometries, soft, tissue-like mechanical properties, and mechanically programmable responses. This convergence addresses challenges in healthcare and medicine, positioning our endeavors at the forefront of interdisciplinary exploration.

• 3D mesoscale electronic and microfluidic structures as bio-interfaces by mechanics-guided assembly

We specialize in mechanics-guided 3D assembly through compressive buckling, resulting in the creation of miniature electronic and microfluidic structures with intricate 3D geometries. Leveraging lithography-based manufacturing techniques, we aim to seamlessly integrate multifunctional devices with biological tissues at the cellular level. These 3D microsystems feature compliant and flexible mechanics and offer customized and complex geometries across various length scales. Our group is dedicated to the design, optimization, and fabrication of soft, multifunctional, and conformal 3D electronic and microfluidic systems to provide high-fidelity electrical sensing/stimulation, and fluidic transport of chemical species for precise regulation. The synergy between our experimental and theoretical/computational skills positions us to develop advanced multifunctional tools, contributing to a deeper understanding of biosystems, the development of disease models, and drug screening applications.

• Mechanics and fabrication of bio-integrated stretchable and flexible electronics

Novel classes of flexible and stretchable electronics not only augment human sensation but also propel advancements in digital health and human–machine interaction. Mechanically guided structural designs serve as a breakthrough approach enabling flexible and stretchable inorganic electronics to seamlessly integrate with delicate biological tissues. Our objectives encompass expanding mechanically guided structural design strategies to fabricate a diverse range of biocompatible sensors, actuators, and processors. Simultaneously, we are dedicated to developing fundamental mechanics models that quantitatively assess the performance of stretchable and flexible electronics. The outcomes of our research hold the potential for far-reaching impacts on fundamental biomedical research and digital health.

• Programmable and reconfigurable microsystems using mechanics-informed design strategies

Recognizing the inherent adaptability of biological systems, we aim to drive the dynamic realm of programmable and reconfigurable microsystems by exploring techniques that induce shape evolution in soft microsystems. Approaches such as incorporating bioresorbable components, utilizing shape-memory materials, applying external forces through electromagnetic actuation, and many others, facilitate the programmable evolution of microsystems over time. Leveraging our expertise in mechanics-informed design and optimization strategies, we streamline the discovery process for reconfigurable, high-performance metastructures with programmable spatiotemporal responses. Our focus on developing shape-evolving bioelectronics, interactive human–machine interfaces, and biomimetic soft robotics positions us at the forefront in this field.