Advances in materials science have profound impacts on the technology and products that people depend upon to live and work. Manufacturing, renewable energy production, computing technology and personal electronics, medical devices and more all rely on the innovative work of materials scientists and engineers.
Our program is concerned with the natural and synthetic materials that humans use to advance technology and society. There are seven key research areas:
Biomaterials
Biomaterials are produced to influence or control biological processes in a variety of medical applications, including therapeutics and medical devices.
Computational Materials Science
This field is defined by the use of simulations and modeling processes to evaluate and understand extant materials—or develop new, theoretical materials.
Electronic, Magnetic and Photonics Materials
Semiconductors, nanotechnological, biotechnological interfaces, photovoltaics, sensors, communications equipment and more depend on advances in materials with suitable electrical properties.
Materials Characterization and Processing
Materials for Energy
Materials for energy are used for the production, conversion and storage of energy, from batteries and solar cells to personal electronics and superconductors.
Soft Materials
Soft materials can be manipulated via temperature regulation for specific applications. They include biological materials, liquids, gels, polymers, colloids and more.
Structural Materials
Structural materials are utilized for their specific mechanical properties and their ability to absorb or redirect force. Structural materials include those used in construction, energy production, electronics, manufacturing and more.
