Research

Self-Assembly

How do structures such as vesicles,
viral capsids and cells form?

Self-assembly

Colloids

Micron-scale particles, which are designed with functional shapes and surface patterning.

Colloidal interfaces

Liquid crystals, DNA and Biopolymers

Long molecules with functions
from transferring genetic information to displays.

Liquid crystals

Surfaces and Interfaces

Micro-patterned and soft surfaces with relevance to friction, lubrication, waterproofing and de-icing.

Surfaces and Interfaces

Synthetic Active Matter

Copying and understanding nature
to design efficient micro-machines.

Active Matter

Powders, Grains and Gels

Theory of elastic surfaces, imaging grain boundary dynamics, and applications to batteries and engine oil.

Grain boundary

Membranes

From modelling ion transport across biological membranes to designer membranes for fuel-cell applications.

Membranes

Biological Physics

Using physical techniques and modelling to understand life processes.

Microscopic swimmers