Title: 

Molecular Solutions to Challenges in Materials and Biomedical Applications

Abstract:

In the 21st century, humankind is facing serious challenges in many aspects, including environment, resources, energy, and health, which require integrative efforts from physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Chemists are empowered with the capability of designing and building materials from the molecular level, which can provide fundamental frameworks to overcome grand challenges. My research program aims to apply our strengths in organic synthesis, catalysis, and mechanistic studies to develop new chemistry and new materials that can meet the needs in materials and biomedical applications. In this presentation, I will discuss the research plans for three projects, including (1) chemically recyclable polymers for sustainable plastics, (2) stress-redistributed polymer networks for strong and durable materials, and (3) force-controlled molecular release for ultrasound-mediated drug release.