Polymer and Soft Materials

Studying nanotechnology fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. This convergence not only drives scientific discovery but also leads to the creation of sustainable solutions to global challenges.

Faculty Research Areas

Maya Endoh

Professor Maya Endoh focuses on the structure and characterization of polymers using advanced techniques such as X-ray and neutron scattering, AFM, and SEM. Her research investigates the mechanical behavior and deformation of polymers, alongside their nanoscale structure and organization. Additionally, she explores polymer interfaces, adhesion, and composites, with a strong emphasis on polymer surface interactions for biomedical applications.

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Tadanori Koga

Professor Tadanori Koga combines experimental and computational expertise to address nanoscale science and engineering challenges in polymer systems. His research focuses on green energy and manufacturing, including polymer thin film nanofabrication using supercritical CO₂, chemical recycling of plastics, and methane hydrates. Additionally, he investigates soft matter self-assembly and applies in-situ, real-time characterization techniques to design advanced materials.

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Dilip Gersappe

Professor Dilip Gersappe focuses on the statistical mechanics and computer modeling of complex chemical systems, particularly self-assembling polymeric and biopolymeric systems. His research utilizes molecular dynamics simulations to investigate polymer adhesives, nanocomposites, and membrane permeability. Additionally, he applies mean field and parallel simulation techniques to study confinement effects, strengthening mechanisms, and transport behaviors at polymer surfaces and interfaces.

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Alexander Orlov

Professor Alexander Orlov’s research focuses on tuning nanoparticles and nanostructures to deliver unprecedented catalytic activity for CO2 conversion and clean hydrogen production. He utilizes computational design and advanced in-situ characterization to observe chemical reactions in catalytic and energy storage systems. Furthermore, his work advances sustainable technologies by developing self-cleaning solar panels, environmentally friendly polymer composites, and structural concrete.

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Miriam Rafailovich

Professor Miriam Rafailovich focuses on polymer materials, nanocomposites, and the development of biodegradable, sustainable polymer systems through advanced manufacturing. Her highly interdisciplinary research spans environmental protection, including nanotoxicology and flame retardants, as well as green energy technologies like fuel cells and photovoltaics. Additionally, she extensively explores biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, biosensors, and bio-nano interactions.

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Jonathan Sokolov

Professor Jonathan Sokolov’s research explores the nanoscale processes governing environmental–material interactions, with a focus on chemical and structural transformations at material interfaces. He investigates environmental degradation, including corrosion and contaminant interactions, as well as biogeochemical and microbial influences on material behavior. To address these environmental challenges, he develops advanced materials and innovative, cross-disciplinary research methodologies.

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