Molecular-scale BIOPOLYMER engineering

The Mai Lab engineers biopolymers, which are the building materials of life.

We aim to develop functional biomaterials and to enhance understanding in soft matter physics. Molecular-scale biopolymer design presents a unique opportunity to rationally design materials based on biomolecular templates. Moreover, biopolymer engineering incorporates the rich functional landscape of biological systems into responsive biomaterials.

The Mai Lab especially seeks to connect properties across multiple length scales (molecular, microscopic, macroscopic) using experimental methods. We integrate rational biomolecular design, biological and chemical synthesis, and multi-scale characterization techniques to engineer biopolymers with tunable mechanics, stimuli-responsive behavior, and self-healing properties. Our research efforts address systems where deformation is significant, with specific project areas including:

(i) muscle-mimetic materials from ion-responsive proteins,
(ii) biolubricants from bottlebrush-shaped polymers, and
(iii) recyclable resins from 3D-printable polymer nanocomposites.

PREVIOUS RESEARCH