The soft materials that define our modern world—from flexible electronics and medical gels to durable coatings—are overwhelmingly synthesized from petroleum-derived resources, which raising concerns about their environmental impact upon disposal. Yet, nature itself offers a vast and largely untapped library of alternatives. Natural polymers, the building blocks of wood, seaweed, and countless other organisms, possess highly sophisticated functional structures refined through long evolutionary processes and are abundant, sustainable, and possess a fascinating diversity of characteristics that change with species, location, and even the season.

This research platform is dedicated to exploring the fundamental science needed to realize the unique potential of these natural polymers. While many soft materials derived from natural sources are typically designed with single-component compositions, this project takes a different approach. It focuses on understanding the intrinsic “personality” of each natural material and merging them together, seeking to discover and harness its most unique and powerful properties.

For example, some researchers focus on creating incredibly tough yet flexible hydrogels, materials that are mostly water but have extraordinary properties. Others are developing new materials from natural sources like seaweed.

Researchers will develop innovative core technologies essential for the next generation of materials science, such as tough, self-healing gels that function as artificial cartilage for an aging population, smart materials that can sense and respond to their environment, or fully biodegradable materials for agriculture and fishing that help preserve our ecosystems.

Project Members