Faculty Research ProfilesSpring 2013

EducationBS 1975, University of Roorkee, IndiaMS 1977, University of DelawarePhD 1979, University of Delaware

Research Interests Dr. Agrawal’s research interests lie in the fields of heterogenerouscatalysis, modeling of chemical reaction processes, and biotechnolo-gy. His work in catalysis includes alkali promotion of supported

transition-metal catalysts, bimetallic-supported clusters in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, and therole of metal-support interaction in catalyst activity and selectivity. His interest in the field ofcatalysis includes the phenomenon of hydrogen spillover in supported metal catalysts. Thereaction studies, when integrated with the results of various physicochemical characteriza-tions of supported catalysts, provide a basic and complete understanding of the catalystbehavior, which has been a central theme of his research efforts. More recent research interestsinvolve the modeling of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) processes for the synthesis of cer-mic composites (A1N and BN), liquid-membrane encapsulated enzymes for biochemical reac-tions, gas-liquid reaction systems, and microbial transformation of syngas to oxygenates.

Dr. Agrawal is the Associate Chair for Undergraduate Studies.

EducationBA BSE 1983, University of PennsylvaniaSM 1986, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyPhD 1989, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr. Allen participates in the Microsystems Research Center and thePackaging Research Center. His main research focus is in micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), which is defined as the use of

microfabrication techniques to create mechanical structures in silicon and other materials,potentially in addition to electronic devices.

His work has received local, national, and international attention in both the popular press andin engineering trade publications. Specific research projects that have recently received mediaattention are: 1) magnetically actuated microrelays, smaller than a dime, that have potential usein automobile electronics, test equipment, and other areas where low actuation voltages arerequired, and 2) drug delivery via microneedles, tiny chips containing arrays of tiny needles,each thinner than a human hair, that can potentially be put on the skin for one-time injectionsand possibly left on the skin for continuous release of a medication under the control of amicroprocessor.

Dr. Allen holds a joint appointment in ECE. He is a Regents’ Professor and the Joseph M. PettitProfessor.

Mark AllenPradeep Agrawal

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EducationSB 1981, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyPhD 1986, University of Minnesota

Research Interests Dr. Bidstrup’s research interests are directed toward the basic rela-tionships between the structure, processing, and mechanical prop-erties of polymers. Particular emphasis is placed on polymeric sys-tems and processing conditions used in electronic packaging and

interconnection. In-situ sensors and characterization techniques are being developed to eval-uate electrical, structural, and mechanical properties of thin polymetric films for GHz multi-chip modules. In addition, the effect of film anisotropy on moisture diffusion, modulus, coef-ficient of thermal expansion, and electrical conductivity is being explored. Other workincludes the development of an on-line dielectric based control system for optimizing theencapsulation of integrated circuits.

Dr. Bidstrup Allen is the Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Scholarship in theCollege of Engineering.

Sue Ann Bidstrup Allen

EducationBSc 1969, Indian Institute of Technology at KharagpurPhD 1974, Concordia University at Montreal

Research Interests Dr. Banerjee’s research interests are in the areas of environmentalengineering and in the development and application of industrialpolymers. A major objective is the commercialization of laboratoryfindings. A present focus is on the conversion of cellulosic materials

to glucose for ethanol production using polymers to enhance the enzymatic step. The funda-mental aspect of the work involves study of the interaction between enzyme and polymerusing atomic force microscopy among other means. Pilot scale runs are also made for com-mercial evaluation.

The behavior of industrial polymers such as cationic polyacrylamides used for sludge dewa-tering, mineral flotation, fiber flocculation, and other applications are modified usingcyclodextrin-related additives. Several of these modifiers are now in commercial use.Laboratory experiments are done with high speed photography and particle size and chargemeasurements. Full-scale measurements are also made in the field and real-time data collectedand analyzed.

Dr. Banerjee is also involved in pulp and paper research, particularly in paper recycling and inthe development of new pulping catalysts.

Sujit Banerjee

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EducationDiplom 1995, University of Goettingen, GermanyPhD 1999, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology/ETH Zurich

Research Interests Dr. Behrens’s research aims at using the solvent-mediated interactionbetween polymers or colloidal species (solid particles, emulsiondroplets, micelles, vesicles, or other nanometer or micrometer sized

objects) to create materials with exciting new properties and high potential for industrial ormedical application. Doing so in a rational way often requires a better understanding of theunderlying materials design principles than is currently available. Open scientific questionsencountered along the way concern, for instance:

• The response of polymers or colloids to changes in thesurrounding medium

• The interaction between two or more colloidal buildingblocks in different environments

• Their dynamics of association and self-assembly intolarger super-structures

Dr. Behrens’s work addresses these questions experimentally by thoroughly characterizing theconformation and electrical charging states of polymers and colloids in different environ-ments, performing high resolution measurements of colloidal forces and interaction energies,and by monitoring association and release processes. Techniques are adapted to the problemsat hand, with a focus on light scattering, electrokinetic and microscopic approaches, and arecomplemented by theoretical modeling.

Sven Holger Behrens

EducationBS 1982, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyDiplom 1984, Technical University, Munich, GermanyPhD 1989, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr. Bommarius’s area of expertise is in biomolecular engineering,especially biocatalysis, bioprocessing, protein stability, as well as pro-tein and amino acid chemistry. His group is mainly interested in the

following areas:

Development of Novel Biocatalysts (selected examples)• Cellobiohydrolases• Beta-lactam hydrolases• Enoate reductases• NAD(P)H oxidases

Investigation and Enhancement of Protein Stability• Effects of buffer salts on protein stability• Short-term tests of aggregation propensities of proteins• Determination of long-term biocatalyst process stability through

short-term experiments

Data-driven protein engineering• Structure-guided consensus concept• Finding relevant residues with Boolean learning/support vector

machine techniques• Improving directed evolution through pooling

Andreas Bommarius

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EducationMS 1996, University of Twente, the NetherlandsPhD 2000, University of Twente, the Netherlands

Research Interests Dr. Breedveld’s research theme is “Structure and Rheology ofComplex Fluids,” investigating the structure and mechanicalstrength of materials that are neither simple Newtonian fluids norelastic solids. Complex fluids encompass a large variety of materials:

food products, polymer melts and solutions, coatings, personal care products, biological fluidsand gels, etc. The mechanical properties (visco-elasticity, shear viscosity) are controlled by themicroscopic molecular structure, which can be tuned by changing the interactions betweenmolecules. The interplay between molecular structure and rheology is the focus of hisresearch.

Experimental research in Dr. Breedveld’s group is centered around two rheological techniques:conventional macrorheology on a rheometer and recently developed microrheology.Macrorheology studies the mechanical properties by deforming a fluid sample (0.5 to 10ml) ina controlled way in a rheometer and measuring the relation between applied stress and result-ing deformation. Microrheology employs sub-micron particles as mechanical probes. The ther-mal fluctuations of these particles can be used as the driving force (~kT) and the resultingBrownian motion can be analyzed under an optical microscope to extract rheological informa-tion about the surrounding fluid.

The approach offers a number of unique opportunities. Due to the small sample size (1 micro-liter is often sufficient), microrheology is very suitable to investigate the structure andmechanical properties of expensive and rare materials. Microrheological measurements aremuch faster than conventional approaches, thus enabling high-throughput screening of rheo-logical properties. Last but not least, the size of the probe particles allows for localized rheolo-gy measurements with micrometer spatial resolution, so that inhomogeneities in the structurecan be detected. Capitalizing on these advantages of the novel technique, Dr. Breedveld cur-rently focuses on the local rheology of bioengineering materials, such as tissue engineeringscaffolds and on high-throughput applications for systems where screening and optimizationof rheological properties is of importance.

Dr. Breedveld is the Robert “Bud” Moeller Faculty Fellow.

Victor Breedveld

EducationBSE 2001, University of MichiganPhD 2007, University of California, Santa Barbara

Research Interests Dr. Champion’s research interests are positioned at the interface ofengineering, materials science, biology and medicine. Specifically,the focus is on nanoscale materials that interact with biological sys-tems in a therapeutic fashion, not just as inert carriers. A number of

biological applications have been identified for nanomaterials since the nano-scale defines theinterfaces between cells, biological molecules and material surfaces. However, the creation ofsuch materials is progressing faster than their interactions with biological systems can beunderstood. One of the primary aims of the research program is the development of funda-mental understanding of nanomaterial interactions with biological systems on all lengthscales, molecular, cellular, tissue and organism. This insight will facilitate the engineering ofnovel bio-nanomaterials with therapeutic capabilities to halt or reverse disease progressionand promote the body’s healing response.

In previous research, Dr. Champion fabricated drug delivery particles with novel shapes andstudied the effect of shape on function. Specifically, the work revealed how the capability ofimmune cells to internalize drug delivery particles is modulated by particle shape. Thisresearch underscores how the physical properties of a material can significantly alter cellularbehavior. Similarly, it is critical to both understand and be able to engineer specific biologicalinteractions with materials in order to achieve therapeutic effects. A multi-scale approach isnecessary given the number and complexity of interactions both within and between themolecular, cellular, tissue and organism length scales. Material design will reflect theserequirements and will integrate specific molecular and/or cellular interactions, traditional drugdelivery strategies such as targeting and stealth, and physical properties such as shape, sizeand flexibility. Synthesis of such materials will be possible via a combination synthetic poly-mers, protein-polymers and peptides to achieve novel therapeutic function.

Julie Champion

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EducationBS 1984, East China University of Science and TechnologyMS 1987, East China University of Science and TechnologyPhD 1994, California Institute of Technology

Research Interests The research in Dr. Chen’s group, broadly defined as BiomolecularEngineering, interfaces Chemistry, Biology, and ChemicalEngineering. By applying Metabolic Engineering, Protein

Engineering, and other molecular engineering tools, the group is addressing several funda-mental issues associated with the use of Enzyme and Microbial Technology in biotechnologi-cal applications. Biomolecular Engineering is a rapidly evolving field, encompassing an everincreasing number of areas. The group passionately pursues those that impact medicine(especially cancer therapy) and the environment (Sustainable Technology or GreenChemistry). Specifically, the group has the following active projects:

• Protein Engineering – Glyco-Diversification of Natural Products for Drug Discovery (Anticancer/Antiviral/Antimicrobial)

• Metabolic Engineering – Agrobacterium sp and E. coli for Oligosaccharides/Sugar Polymer Synthesis

• Cellular Membrane Engineering – Control the Flow of Molecules into/from Cells Through Genetic Engineering

• Renewable Chemical Feedstock – Ethanol from Cellulose, Xylose and Xylo Oligosaccharides from Hemicellulose, Vanillin from Corn Fibers, and Other Value-Added Chemicals from Biomass

• Self-Assembled Protein Nanostructures with Novel Functions–MultifunctionalCatalysts and Therapeutic Agents

Rachel Chen

EducationBS 1970, Delta State UniversityPhD 1974, Dartmouth College

Research Interests Dr. Chance’s research interests are mainly concerned with energy,CO2 capture, and CO2 utilization. CO2 capture work involves usingmaterials and systems to separate and isolate CO2 from anthro-pogenic point sources such as coal-fired power plants. The work

involves rapid cycle absorption processes in a hollow-fiber format. Dr. Chance also works ona broad spectrum of problems related to the generation of transportation fuels fromcyanobacteria. This work includes novel CO2 delivery systems, ethanol-water separations,photobiology, and life-cycle analysis. Georgia Tech collaborators include Drs. Bill Koros, ChrisJones, Sankar Nair, Matthew Realff, Valerie Thomas, Victor Breedveld, and Jean-Luc Bredas.

Dr. Chance has a joint appointment in Chemistry & Biochemistry. He is the associate directorof the Strategic Energy Institute, and the executive vice president of engineering for AlgenolBiofuels, an advanced biofuels company located in Bonita Springs, Florida.

Ronald Chance

EducationBS 1999, Louisiana Tech UniversityPhD 2005, Johns Hopkins University

Research Interests Dr. Dawson’s research applies genetic engineering, cell biophysics,and quantitative microscopy techniques to the development ofnanoparticle and cell-based gene delivery systems that can over-come biological transport barriers and treat disease. Gene therapy

vectors, which utilize the cell’s natural machinery to produce therapeutic proteins, are tai-lored to treat specific diseases, beginning with cancer. The transport of gene delivery systemsis often severely limited in complex biological environments; thus, quantitative microscopytechniques are used to investigate their biophysical properties, as well as the properties oftheir biological matrices. This information is used to optimize the transport of gene deliverysystems.

Dr. Dawson has focused some of her recent studies on understanding the role of bone mar-row-derived cells in tumor growth and metastasis. In these studies, Dr. Dawson found thatbone marrow cells rapidly accumulated in tumors promoting their growth and metastasisthrough the formation of blood vessels and the degradation of extracellular matrix compo-nents. Bone marrow cell mobilization to the blood and migration to tumors was initiated bytumor cell secretion of soluble growth factors. These studies have provided powerful insightinto the migratory behavior of bone-marrow-derived cells, including myeloid progenitor cells,hematopoietic stem cells, and mesenchymal stem cells.

Research in the Dawson lab is also directed towards the development of novel gene deliveryvectors by genetically engineering mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as delivery systems. MSCsspontaneously migrate from the bone marrow and infiltrate wounded tissues and tumors;however, the majority of MSCs reinfused after ex vivo manipulation become trapped in thelungs. The identification of soluble growth factors that stimulate their migration in the woundbed or tumor may be a key element in the development of MSC-based therapeutics that canovercome current transport limitations. Important biophysical properties of MSCs are probedwith quantitative biophysical techniques, which enhances fundamental knowledge of MSCbehavior, and guides the rational development of MSCs as gene delivery systems.

Michelle Dawson

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EducationBSE 1971, University of Michigan, Ann ArborMSE 1972, University of Michigan, Ann ArborPhD 1976, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Research Interests • Pollution Prevention

• Physical Chemical Treatment Processes (Ion Exchange, Oxidation Processes,Catalytic Oxidation, Photocatalytic Oxidation, Electrocatalysis, Adsorption, Electro-Adsorption, Air Stripping)

•Transport of Organics in Saturated and Unsaturated Groundwater

• Modeling of Fixed-Bed Reactors and Adsorbers (Photocatalysis, LowTemperature Catalysis in Aqueous and Gas Phases, Transport of Organics in Saturated and Unsaturated Groundwater)

•Sol-Gel Chemistry for Preparation of Zeolites and Catalysts

•Surface Chemistry and Thermodynamics (Prediction of Adsorption Capacitiesand Surface Catalyzed Rate Constants)

•Modeling of Wastewater and Water Treatment Processes

John Crittenden

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EducationBS 1982, Northeast Normal University, ChinaPhD 1992, Manchester University, United Kingdom

Research Interests Dr. Deng’s research interests are nanomaterial synthesis andself-assembling, biofuel and biomased materials, colloid and surfacescience and engineering, polymer synthesis, and papermaking andpaper recycling.

Nanomaterial synthesis and characterization is a focus of Dr. Deng’s research group. One-dimensional nanomaterials, including ZnO, TiO2, Mg(OH)2, Au, polyaniline, and two-dimen-sional nanomaterials with ordered patterns have been our research interesting projects. Theunique applications of such one- and two- dimensional nanomaterials as a sensor, solar celland supercapacitors have been studied. The one-dimensional nanomaterials synthesized inour lab have also been used as reinforcement materials in polymer nanocomposite. Cellulosenanowhiskers, which are biodegradable one-dimensional materials, have been used as rein-forcement nanomaterials in our high strength fiber preparation.

Hollow structures inorganic materials, such as TiO2 and polymer materials, such as poly(iso-propyl acrylamide) have been synthesized. These unique nanomaterials can be used in manyapplications including drug delivery, solar cell, etc.

Nanocomposites such as polymer/nanoclay hybrids are engineering materials that have greatpotential in many industries. Recent research in Dr. Deng’s group indicated that exfoliatednanoclay could be encapsulated in polymer latexes. The water-based polymer-nanoclay sus-pension is a great candidate for painting and paper coating.

Biofuel is another interested research area of Dr. Deng’s research group. Novel pretreatmentof lignoncellulose for biofuel production was one of the area Dr. Deng have been activelyinvolved. Catalytic depolymerization of lignin, including chemical and photocatalytic conver-sion of lignin into fuel are currently active research projects in Dr. Deng’s research group.

Colloid and surface science and engineering area, Dr. Deng’s research is focused on polymeradsorption kinetics, polymer configuration, flocculation, emulsion and micellization. The newpolymer additives and novel fillers that may be used as flocculants, papermaking agents,adhesives and drug delivery polymers are being designed and studied.

Pulp and paper science and engineering are also part of Dr. Deng’s research.

Yulin Deng

EducationBS 1960, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyMS 1961, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyPhD 1964, University of California, Berkeley

Research Interests Dr. Eckert has collaborated with chemist Charles Liotta for morethan two decades: they share laboratory space and codirect studentsfrom both disciplines. The joint research is focused at the interface

between chemistry and engineering; applications include sustainable technology, energy con-servation, innovative separations (including bioseparations), and novel materials.

His group’s work encompasses molecular thermodynamics, solution chemistry, phase equilib-ria, chemical kinetics, homogeneous catalysis, supercritical fluid processing, and separations.They draw heavily on the molecular and analytical interpretations of chemists and chemicalphysicists for an understanding of intermolecular interactions in solutions. These results areused to develop methods for tailoring separation and reaction process for specific applications.

Dr. Eckert is the J. Erskine Love, Jr. Institute Chair in Engineering and the director of theSpecialty Separations Center.

Charles Eckert

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EducationBS 2000, Cornell UniversityMS 2003, Stanford UniversityPhD 2006, Stanford University

Research Interests Dr. Filler’s research program seeks to advance the function and per-formance of energy conversion, photonic, and electronic devicesthrough the rational engineering of semiconductor nanowires. These

nanoscale materials exhibit unique properties as a result of their one-dimensional structure,and therefore provide new opportunities to interact with photons, manipulate charge, or con-trol atomic position. By developing fundamental chemistry-structure-property relationships,Dr. Filler’s group is gaining the ability to precision engineer these materials at multiple lengthscales. Group-IV elements (i.e. C, Si, Ge, and Sn), their alloys, and heterostructures are a par-ticular focus due to their industrial relevance and earth-abundance.

Dr. Filler is pioneering the application of in-situ spectroscopic techniques for the study ofnanowire synthesis. These methods provide atomic-scale knowledge of bulk and surfacechemistry in real-time, such that short-lived species, which govern crystal structure, polytypeformation, and impurity incorporation, can be definitively identified. This chemical under-standing is subsequently exploited to rationally control fabrication processes and tune materi-als properties. For example, it is now possible to obtain nanowire crystal structures and com-plex 3-D superstructures that are synthetically inaccessible with traditional fabrication meth-ods.

While quantum-confined nanostructures offer significant potential to yield emergent function,the influence of surfaces on properties is significant and only just beginning to be understood.In-situ nanowire growth and analysis provides a unique opportunity to fundamentally studythe role of nanomaterial surfaces in a highly controlled environment. The impact of chemicalfunctionality and bonding on electronic band structure and charge transport is currentlyunder investigation.

Traditional materials (e.g. Si or GaAs) with thermodynamically stable crystal structures haveenabled prototype nanoscale devices, but their relatively simple crystal structures represent atiny fraction of what may ultimately be possible. Nanoscale strain relaxation is being exploitedto overcome challenges that have previously hindered band structure engineering in group IValloy thin films. Chemical knowledge gained through in-situ measurement is being combinedwith non-equilibrium growth techniques to yield nanowires with well-defined atomic compo-sitions and optoelectronic properties.

Michael Filler

EducationBS 1982, University of UtahPhD 1992, University of California, Berkeley

Research Interests Dr. Fuller’s research focuses on electrochemical systems for energyconversion and storage. His interests are in linking fundamental sci-ence and technology with practical applications to meet the growingenergy challenges. Conservative estimates project that 10 TW of

additional power are needed by the year 2050 to satisfy global demand. The key drivers forthe increase in power are population growth and economic development. The scope of thispower requirement is enormous, representing about a doubling of present capacity. If largeamounts of energy are required, what will be the sources and what will be the environmentalconsequences of providing this power? For instance, limiting atmospheric carbon dioxide totwice pre-industrial levels can be accomplished with the introduction of 10 TW of carbon-freepower by 2035.

Potential answers, whether fossil-fuel, renewable, or nuclear based, all present intense techni-cal, environmental, and security challenges. Solutions will demand interdisciplinary researchand a strong emphasis on understanding the underlying physics and chemistry. Without ques-tion chemical engineers have a critical role in developing the necessary technology, bringingsolutions to market, and educating the public.

As an example, the key for the development of fuel cells is to simultaneously improve theirdurability, performance, and cost. The primary means to this end is through the introductionof new materials and appropriate component and system design. In both cases a fundamentaland thorough understanding of the chemistry and physics of the relevant phenomena isessential. A mechanistic understanding may then be used to 1) guide the development of newelectrolyte materials/membrane for instance, and 2) develop physics based models that pro-vide predictive capability for the durability of the new materials or system configurations. Theclose coupling of physical and chemical phenomena make detailed models instrumental inidentifying critical materials properties and in the understanding of failure modes.

Dr. Fuller is the director of the Center for Innovative Fuel Cell and Battery Technologies.

Tom Fuller

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EducationBS 1996, University of IllinoisMS 1997, California Institute of TechnologyPhD 2003, California Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr. Grover’s research activities in process systems engineering focuson understanding macromolecular organization and the emergenceof biological function. Discrete atoms and molecules interact to form

macromolecules and even larger mesoscale assemblies, ultimately yielding macroscopic struc-tures and properties. A quantitative relationship between the nanoscale discrete interactionsand the macroscale properties is required to design, optimize, and control such systems; yet inmany applications, predictive models do not exist or are computationally intractable.

The Grover group is dedicated to the development of tractable and practical approaches forthe engineering of macroscale behavior via explicit consideration of molecular and atomicscale interactions. We focus on applications involving the kinetics of self-assembly, specificallythose in which methods from non-equilibrium statistical mechanics do not provide closedform solutions. General approaches employed include stochastic modeling, model reduction,machine learning, experimental design, robust parameter design, and estimation.

Dr. Grover is the Duncan A. Mellichamp Faculty Fellow.

Martha Grover

EducationBS 1994, Georgia Institute of TechnologyMS 1996, University of Texas, AustinPhD 1998, University of Texas, Austin

Research Interests Dr. Henderson’s research interests are in the areas of polymer sci-ence, thin films, nanotechnology, organic electronic materials, andmicrosystems processing (i.e. the fabrication of microelectronic,

optoelectronic, microfluidic, and microelectromechanical systems). The work in theHenderson group is at the crossroads of chemical engineering, polymer science, materials sci-ence, chemistry, and nanoscience. His group is mainly interested in the following areas:

Polymer Ultra-Thin Films & Advanced MembranesThe behavior of polymeric materials can change quite dramatically as the materials are con-fined to small dimensions. The Henderson group is pioneering the discovery of which physio-chemical properties in polymer ultra-thin films change due to confinement, characterizingwhat the important length scales are for confinement with respect to different properties, andcharacterizing the magnitudes and potential universal scaling of such behaviors.

Advanced Materials and Processes for Semiconductor PatterningThe semiconductor industry is constantly shrinking the size of device features (e.g. the transis-tor gate) in order to produce faster and more powerful microelectronic products. This imposesstrong demands on the microlithographic technologies and imaging materials used to patternsemiconductor devices. A variety of projects are being pursued in the area of imaging materi-als (photoresists) to develop a fundamental understanding of the important physical andchemical processes that control their performance. A series of projects is also being pursuedto develop new imaging materials for next generation lithography (e.g. EUVL and e-beam sys-tems).

Novel Routes to Manufacturing Graphene and Graphene DevicesGraphene is an exciting new nanomaterial that possesses an array of unique properties thatmake it a promising candidate material in a variety of electronic and optoelectronic applica-tions. Work in the Henderson group is focused on the development of novel organic precur-sors and processing methods that will allow for the direct fabrication of graphene nanostruc-tures in ways compatible with current electronics processing technology.

Clifford Henderson

2019

EducationBS 1968, Albright CollegeMS 1970, Lehigh UniversityPhD 1973, Lehigh University

Research Interests Dr. Hess’s research interests are in thin film science and technology,surface and interface modification and characterization, microelec-tronics processing and electronic materials. His group focuses on the

establishment of fundamental structure-property relationships and their connection to chemi-cal process sequences used in the fabrication of novel films, electronic materials, devices, andnanostructures. Control of the surface properties of materials such as dielectrics, semiconduc-tors, metals, and paper or paper board by film deposition or surface modification allows thedesign of such surfaces for a variety of applications in microelectronics, packaging, sensors,and microfluidics.

The Hess group often uses glow discharges or plasmas for the deposition, etching, and poly-merization of thin films or for the modification of surfaces. For example, plasma-depositedfluorocarbon films are being used to generate superhydrophobic paper and cellulose surfacesfor self-cleaning and microfluidic applications. The design of novel, low temperature plasmaetching processes for the nano-scale patterning of copper films for advanced integrated circuitfabrication is also being studied. Surface cleaning and modification for control of materialproperties using a variety of liquid and vapor phase approaches are also of interest.Specifically, our group is studying the use of elevated pressure fluids, including supercriticalfluids, for environmentally benign surface cleaning, sterilization of medical instruments andmaterials, and the formation of nanoparticles. Chemical vapor deposition and other film for-mation methods are being used to deposit graphene, a material that is a possible successor tosilicon for future generations of integrated circuits.

Dr. Hess is the Thomas C. DeLoach, Jr. Chair and director of Georgia Tech’s NSF MaterialsResearch Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) for New Electronic Materials.

Dennis Hess

EducationBS 1967, National Taiwan UniversityMS 1970, Syracuse University, New YorkPhD 1974, Syracuse University, New York

Research Interests Dr. Hsieh’s research interests are in the areas of nanoparticles,deinking, biofuels, and fiber technology.

Nanotechnology presents new opportunities for great improvement on papermaking andcoating properties. His research group focuses on the technology of microfibrillated cellulose(MFC) and its applications in papermaking and coating. The challenge is to reduce the size ofcellulose and cellulose fines to nanosize particles.

Deinking of recycled pulp is a specialized technology that removes sub-micron ink particlesfrom pulp. The process supports a sustainable manufacturing process by reducing the paper-making materials destined for landfills. The ink widely used in digital print cartridges isheavily pigmented and presents more challenges for the deinking process. Dr. Hsieh’s patent-ed electric field technology is used to improve removal of this type of ink. Hydrophilic flexo-graphic ink contains a less volatile organic compound (VOC) and presents similar challengesfor deinking. The Hsieh group is researching methods to overcome the challenges associatedwith treating this ink as well.

Biofuel from corn is expected to plateau in the next five years at 15-billion gallons per year(BGY). Advanced cellulose-based biofuels are anticipated to fill the void left by the reductionin corn-based biofuel. To address the evolving shift in biofuel materials and production, Dr.Hsieh’s research group concentrates on the pretreatment of lignocellulosic materials and theconversion of cellulose, lignin, sludge, and waste stream into useful biofuels. Electric fieldtechnology is also used as an energy saving method to separate waste skimming sludge intovaluable bioproducts. Additionally, hydrosonic pump wave technology is used to improvethe efficiency of transesterification.

Research in fiber technology consists of purifying cellulosic and synthetic fibers for web for-mation for various end-use applications. Chemical and thermomechanical pulping, deinkingon recycled fibers, mass transfer and kinetics in oxygen, and peroxide and ozone delignifica-tion are various methods that his group currently studies. Bonding technologies of syntheticfibers to form high-performance web structures for high-temperature, ultra-tear-resistance,and super-strength applications are also investigated.

Dr. Hsieh is the director of Georgia Tech’s Multidisciplinary Pulp and Paper EngineeringProgram.

Jeff Hsieh

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EducationBSE 1995, University of MichiganMS 1997, California Institute of TechnologyPhD 1999, California Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr. Jones’s research interests are in the broad areas of materialsdesign and synthesis, catalysis and adsorption. Specific emphasesare placed on catalytic materials for energy applications, fine chemi-

cal and pharmaceutical applications, and on adsorbents for CO2 capture. His research group’swork on the rational design of molecularly engineered materials draws from a number of dif-ferent disciplines to enable the development of functional materials with applications inareas such as catalysis and separations. His group utilizes advanced inorganic, organic andorganometallic synthetic techniques to endow solid materials with well characterized surfaceswhere the physical and chemical properties of the solid are manipulated by understandingand controlling the structure of the material on all length scales. In particular, significant focusis placed on the molecular design and nanoscale engineering of zeolite, silica andpolymeric materials. While targeting industrially relevant, practical goals, his group’s researchfocuses on the fundamental issues involved in the design and characterization of novel func-tional solid materials. This research sits squarely at the crossroads of a number of disciplines,and his group is composed of chemical engineers, chemists, material scientists, and environ-mental engineers.

Dr. Jones is the New-Vision Professor of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and an adjunct professor in Chemistry & Biochemistry.

Christopher Jones

EducationBEng 1997, Kansai University, JapanMEng 1999, Kansai University, JapanPhD 2007, Carnegie Mellon University

Research Interests Dr. Kawajiri’s research interests are in the interdisciplinary area ofprocess systems engineering and separation engineering. In particu-lar, his interests include dynamic optimization, control, and parame-

ter estimation techniques applied to novel separation processes. Some specific topics includeoptimal design and operation of simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography, and modelingof crystallization process.

Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatographySMB chromatography has a long history of use in the sugar and petrochemical industries. It isnow recognized as one of the most important separation techniques also in the pharmaceuticalindustry, in particular for enantiomer separation. Dr. Kawajiri’s work addresses efficient processdevelopment, operation, and control of SMB processes utilizing nonlinear optimization tech-niques as well as experimental studies.

Modeling of crystallization processesAlthough crystallization is recognized as one of the most powerful and cost-effective separationmethods, design, and operation remain challenges. Dr. Kawajiri’s approach to this problem is toapply computational techniques such as mathematical modeling, parameter estimation, andnonlinear programming utilizing in-situ particle characterization techniques.

Yoshiaki Kawajiri

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EducationBS 1974, Bethany CollegePhD 1978, University of Texas

Research Interests Dr. Kohl’s research interests include new materials and processes foradvanced interconnects for integrated circuits and electrochemicaldevices for energy conversion and storage. He also leads extensiveprograms in micro-fuel cells for self-powered integrated circuits and

the use of ionic liquids in electrochemical devices.

New Materials and Processing for Microelectronic Devices and PackagingUltra-low dielectric constant insulators are needed in electronic devices. The Kohl group hasdeveloped new materials and processes for fabrication of embedding air-isolation in electronicand optical devices. Air encapsulated and porous structures provide mechanically compliant,low capacitance interconnects. The groups’ other recent projects include electroless coppersuperfilling, rapid microwave processing of electronic materials, and investigation of novelinterconnection materials.

Room Temperature Ionic LiquidsRoom temperature ionic liquids provide high conductivity, wide electrochemical stability, andzero vapor pressure. New ionic liquids are simple to produce. The Kohl group is currentlydeveloping methods for using electrolytes in high capacity lithium batteries and to depositdendrite-free lithium metal for a high capacity lithium battery. In addition, ionic liquids arebeing used at the absorber in a Freon-based absorption refrigeration system where waste heatcan be used to provide refrigeration at convenient temperatures and pressures.

High Energy Density Fuel CellsMethanol can provide the fuel to drive high energy density fuel cells for use in small portabledevices. Proton exchange membrane fuel cells have received considerable attention as viablereplacements for traditional power sources; however, they have many challenges includingcomplex water management and high cost due to the use of platinum. The Kohl group isresearching the use of anions as the conducting species in fuel cells to overcome many of theseproblems. Additionally, the group has designed fuel cells to overcome water managementproblems by using new anion conducting membranes that control the water content of themembrane electrode assembly. Progress is also being made toward simple, commerciallyviable, methanol cells.

Dr. Kohl is a Regents’ Professor, Institute Fellow, Hercules, Inc./Thomas L. Gossage Chair, andthe director of Semiconductor Research Corportion’s Interconnect and Packaging Center atGeorgia Tech.

Paul Kohl

EducationBS 1969, University of Texas, AustinPhD 1977, University of Texas, Austin

Research Interests Materials for membranes, sorbents, and barrier packaging applica-tions rely upon the same fundamental principles.Thermodynamically controlled partitioning of a penetrant, such ascarbon dioxide into a membrane, sorbent or barrier packaging layer

is the first step in the transport process. If the material is a polymer, cooperative motions ofthe matrix enable diffusive motion by the penetrant. In highly rigid carbon molecular sievesand zeolites, motion of the matrix is negligible, and penetrant transport is governed by therelative size of pre-existing pores and the penetrant molecule.

Dr. Koros’s group is a leader in developing advanced materials for membranes, sorbents, andbarrier applications by optimization materials to either promote or retard transport of specificcomponents. For instance, for a chosen penetrant such as carbon dioxide, the Koros group cancreate a barrier, a selective membrane, or a sorbent by materials engineering. Work is alsounderway in the Koros group to form “mixed matrix composite” materials comprised ofblends of rigid carbons or zeolites within the matrix of a conventional polymer. Thisapproach allows further optimization of transport properties without sacrificing the ease ofprocessing associated with conventional polymers.

Fascinating effects due to non equilibrium thermodynamic and non-Fickian transport phe-nomena are additional topics his group studies. Long lived conditioning effects due to expo-sure of membranes and barriers to elevated concentrations of certain penetrants are typical ofsuch non-equilibrium phenomena. Protracted aging of glassy polymers, carbons, and inor-ganic membranes after formation or conditioning treatments also are of interest to hisresearch group. In many cases, these effects seem to defy logic—until one realizes that anexpanded set of rules governs these out-of-equilibrium materials.

Dr. Koros is the Roberto C. Goizueta Chair for Excellence in Chemical Engineering and GRAEminent Scholar in Membranes.

William Koros

2625

EducationBS 1959, Brooklyn CollegePhD 1963, University of Maryland

Research Interests Dr. Liotta has collaborated with Charles Eckert for nearly twodecades: they share laboratory space and codirect students fromboth disciplines. The joint research is focused at the interface

between chemistry and engineering; applications include sustainable technology, energy con-servation, innovative separations (including bioseparations), and novel materials.

His group’s work encompasses molecular thermodynamics, solution chemistry, phase equilib-ria, chemical kinetics, homogeneous catalysis, supercritical fluid processing, and separations.The research group draws heavily on the molecular and analytical interpretations of chemistsand chemical physicists for an understanding of intermolecular interactions in solutions.These results are used to develop methods for tailoring separation and reaction process forspecific applications.

Dr. Liotta is a Regents’ Professor and chair of the School of Chemistry & Biochemistry.

Charles Liotta

EducationBS 1998, University of Illinois, Urbana-ChampaignMSCEP 2000, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyPhD 2003, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr Lu’s research lies at the interface of engineering and biology. Thelab engineers microfluidic devices and BioMEMS (Bio Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) to study neuroscience, genetics, cancer

biology, systems biology, and biotechnology. These miniaturized Lab-on-a-chip tools enable usto study biology in a unique way unavailable to conventional techniques. Applied to the studyof fundamental biological questions, these new techniques allow us to gather large-scale quan-titative data about complex systems. Microfluidic devices are especially suitable for solvingthese problems because of the many advantages associated with shrinking the devices downto a scale comparable to typical biological systems. Furthermore, unique phenomena at themicro and nano length scale, such as enhanced surface effects and transport phenomena, canbe exploited in designing novel techniques and devices.

In neuroscience, we are interested in how the nervous system develops and functions, andhow genes and environment influence behavior. In cancer biology, we are interested in the rollof extra cellular matrix and soluble factors in cell migrations. In cancer therapy, we are inter-ested in signal transductions for adoptive transfer. For systems biology, we are interested inlarge-scale experimentation and automation, and applications in neuroscience and cell biolo-gy. In general, we bring together molecular and genetic techniques and the micro devices tofurther our understanding of the complex biological systems. We make micro devices to inves-tigate molecular events and signaling networks, cellular behavior, connectivity and activitiesof populations of cells, and the resulting complex behaviors of the animals. The ultimate goalis to bring new technologies to understand natural and dysfunctional states of biological sys-tems and ultimately bring cures to diseases.

Dr. Lu is the James R. Fair Faculty Fellow.

Hang Lu

2827

EducationBS 1984, University of IllinoisPhD 1989, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr. Ludovice’s research activities emphasize the use of computersimulation to elucidate the relationship between atomic level struc-ture and properties of synthetic and biological macromolecules.Insight from computer simulations can more efficiently guide exper-

imental efforts to save millions of dollars on development costs. Particular emphasis is placedon the characterization of fundamental ordering and energetic phenomena that are indicativeof superior properties.

Dr. Ludovice is currently focusing his efforts in a number of areas including transmembraneproteins, relaxation and gas diffusion in polymer glasses and polymers for microelectronicsapplications. He is also developing new simulation protocols to more efficiently model highlyviscous systems.

Dr. Ludovice’s current research projects include:

• Poly(norbornene) Polymers • Simulation of Polymer Free Volume & Solubility • Membrane Chemoporation • Physics of Thin Films • Simulation Methods: Protracted Colored Noise Dynamics

Pete Ludovice

EducationPhD 1976, Louisiana State University

Research Interests Dr. Marsolan’s research interests include smart manufacturing tech-nologies, operational excellence processes, and pulp & paperprocess optimization.

As the director of the Institute of Paper Science & Technology (IPST) at Georgia Tech, Dr.Marsolan leads strategic initiatives in the following areas:

• Development of renewable, sustainable products from forest biomass• Bio-refining to enrich the portfolio of products at existing manufacturing sites• Operational excellence through breakthrough technologies that maximize

capital while improving efficiency and reducing cost

IPST is a research center, the enabler of a unique specialized graduate education program, and a centerfor intellectual capital in the forest biomaterials industry, and is positioned as a lead industry center atGeorgia Tech. IPST supports forest biomaterials entities in addressing strategic needs, revitalizingexisting assets, improving margins, developing new innovative products, and winning in the market-place.

Norman Marsolan

3029

EducationBChE 1966, Cornell UniversityMS 1966, Cornell UniversityMA 1968, Princeton UniversityPhD 1970, Princeton University

Research Interests Dr. McIntire’s research interests are in cellular engineering and thebioengineering aspects of vascular biology, thrombosis, inflammato-

ry response, and infectious disease.

Dr. McIntire is the director and Wallace H. Coulter Chair in the Wallace H. CoulterDepartment of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University. He holds ajoint appointment in ChBE.

The Wallace H. Coulter Department is a joint venture between Georgia Tech and EmoryUniversity. The mission of the department is twofold: to educate and prepare students toreach the forefront of leadership in the field of biomedical engineering; and to impact healthcare significantly by assembling a world class faculty who shape the cutting edge of researchin key biomedical areas. Research in biomedical engineering holds the potential for majorbreakthroughs in medicine, basic science, and applied technology. Innovations in medicalimaging, computer-assisted surgery, medical devices, and more efficient delivery of drugs todisease sites are research pursuits for BME.

Larry McIntire

EducationBS 1993, Georgia Institute of TechnologyPhD 1998, University of Texas, Austin

Research Interests Dr. Meredith directs the Advanced Polymer Interfaces andMaterials research group in ChBE. He also serves as coordinator forthe New Forest Biomass Materials and Chemicals research divisionat the Institute of Paper Science and Engineering (IPST).

Industry and society have come to rely upon polymers as a relatively cheap and plentifulsource of raw materials for products. However, most advanced materials involve multiplecomponents with complex interfaces between those different components. For example, poly-mer-ceramic and polymer-metal composites and nanocomposites are used in packaging,automobiles, catalysts, separations, electronics, sensors, and bioengineering.

Dr. Meredith’s research focuses on developing the science and technology of these interfaces,with a particular emphasis on advanced polymer-zeolite and polymer-metal composite mate-rials for energy and sensor applications. A second strong interest of his group is applyingthis knowledge to develop new renewable polymer resources, for example utilizing forestbiomass.

These efforts include developing polymer-zeolite interfaces for novel separations membranes,using atomic force microscopy to measure the forces at interfaces, and finding new uses ofnaturally-occurring particles such as pollen.

Dr. Meredith is the J. Carl Pirkle Sr. Faculty Fellow and the Associate Chair for GraduateStudies.

Carson Meredith

3231

EducationBTech 1997, Indian Institute of Technology DelhiMS 2002, University of Massachusetts, AmherstPhD 2002, University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Research Interests Dr. Nair directs the Nanoporous Materials and Membranes ResearchGroup in the School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering atGeorgia Tech. The research of his group has important potential

applications in several areas including biomolecule sensing, energy management, and separa-tions. Analytical chemical engineering fundamentals are carefully combined with syntheticchemistry, mechanistic experiments, theory, and simulation methods, to develop synthesis-structure-property relationships of technological and fundamental interest.

The primary focus of his research is on creating, understanding, and rationally engineeringmaterials and devices that are obtained through chemical processing strategies. A commonthread uniting the problems under investigation is the manipulation of the unique propertiesresulting from reduction of material dimensions to the nanometer length scale or from thenanostructuring of a material. His group’s current research attacks challenging basic problemsrelating directly to nanoscale science and engineering.

Sankar Nair

EducationDiploma 1993, National Technical University of Athens, GreeceMS 1997, University of MiamiPhD 2002, California Institute of Technology

Research Interests The effect of human activities on climate is being recognized as oneof the most important issues facing society. Humans influence cli-mate in numerous ways; the effect of some is to cool the planet and

of others to heat it. The significance of some components (such as the warming effect of carbondioxide) is well understood and quantified; other components are subject to high uncertainty.Aerosols (airborne particulate matter) belong to the latter. The consensus in the scientific com-munity is that aerosols have an overall cooling effect (comparable to the warming from green-house gases), but quantitative estimates of their effect are still highly uncertain. A largeamount of this uncertainty originates from their effect on clouds (the aerosol “indirect effect”).Clouds have a strong influence on the Earth’s radiative balance, but are poorly represented incurrent climate models. Since cloud droplets and ice crystals form on preexisting aerosol parti-cles (thus having a strong effect on the resulting cloud properties), it is easy to see why quanti-tative estimates of the aerosol effect are so uncertain. Measuring the cloud droplet formationpotential of aerosols is essential for evaluating models of aerosol-cloud interactions. Dr.Nenes’s group aims to understand and improve current instrumentation, by developing fullycoupled and comprehensive mathematical models of each instrument (or design).

Dr. Nenes’s current research projects include:

• Modeling of aerosol-cloud-climate interactions on a global scale• Modeling and parameterization of cloud microphysical processes• Thermodynamic modeling of tropospheric aerosols• Instrumentation and techniques for characterizing organic-water interactions,

hygroscopicitiy and CCN activity of aerosols• Laboratory and field studies on CCN activity and aerosol-cloud interactions• New particle formation and its impact on CCN concentrations• Effect of pollution on marine ecosystem productivity and carbon cycle• Impact of marine ecosystem productivity on clouds

Dr. Nenes is the Georgia Power Faculty Scholar and holds a joint appointment in the School ofEarth and Atmospheric Sciences (EAS).

Athanasios Nenes

EducationBEng 2002, The Hong Kong University of Science and TechnologyMS 2003, California Institute of TechnologyPhD 2007, California Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr. Ng’s research interest is in aerosol chemistry. Her research focus-es on both laboratory experiments and field measurements tounderstand the formation and evolution of atmospheric aerosols.

This research includes conducting chamber experiments in which specific compounds of inter-est can be isolated and studied under simple, well-controlled oxidation environments, allow-ing for a more detailed and direct characterization of the composition, chemical, and physicalproperties of aerosols. Dr. Ng is also involved in field measurement campaigns and integratedanalysis of multidimensional and multiple worldwide mass spectrometer datasets to investi-gate the chemistry and life cycles (sources, processes, and fates) of ambient aerosols.Additionally, she works on the development and characterization of advanced aerosol instru-mentation, which can routinely characterize and monitor the mass and chemical compositionof non-refractory submicron aerosols in real time.

Dr. Ng holds a joint appointment in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (EAS).

Nga Lee “Sally” Ng

3433

EducationBA 2003, Macalester CollegePhD 2008, Columbia University

Research Interests Dr. Peralta-Yahya’s laboratory seeks to develop foundational tech-nologies to more effectively engineer biological systems for chemicalsynthesis. Applications for this work can be found in areas rangingfrom energy to healthcare to defense. Using an interdisciplinary

approach rooted in concepts and techniques from chemistry, biology, and engineering, thegroup’s work aims to push the synthetic capabilities of biological systems for the productionof chemicals. The group has the following active projects:

•Metabolic engineering for the production of chemicals (fuels, pharmaceuticals)•Protein engineering for the development of novel catalysts (biomass processing, therapeutics)•Foundational technologies in synthetic biology for the generation of biosensors

Dr. Peralta-Yahya holds a primary appointment in the School of Chemistry & Biochemistry.

Pamela Peralta-Yahya

3635

EducationBEng 1986, Imperial College, LondonPhD 1992, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr. Realff’s broad research interests are in the areas of processdesign, simulation, scheduling, and control. Hisspecific interestsinclude the design and operation of processes that minimize wasteproduction by recovery of useful products from waste streams, and

the simultaneous scheduling and control of batch processes. His overall research goal is toautomate the entire design process—the design or selection of molecules for desired productproperties, the synthesis of reaction pathways and separation operations, and the design andselection of processing equipment—by combining fundamental chemical engineering sciencewith an understanding of the methods of design.

Dr. Realff is the David Wang Sr. Fellow.

Matthew Realff

EducationBS 1988, Stanford UniversityPhD 1994, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr. Prausnitz and his colleagues carry out research on biophysicalmethods of drug delivery, which employ microneedles, ultrasound,lasers, electric fields, heat, convective forces and other physicalmeans to control the transport of drugs, proteins, genes and vaccines

into and within the body.

A major area of focus involves the use of microneedle patches to apply vaccines to the skin in apainless, minimally invasive manner. In collaboration with Emory University, the Centers forDisease Control and Prevention and other organizations, Dr. Prausnitz’s group is advancingmicroneedles from device design and fabrication through pharmaceutical formulation and pre-clinical animal studies through studies in human subjects. In addition to developing a self-administered influenza vaccine using microneedles, Dr. Prausnitz is translating microneedlestechnology especially to make vaccination in developing countries more effective.

The Prausnitz group has also developed hollow microneedles for injection into the skin andinto the eye in collaboration with Emory University. In the skin, research focuses on insulinadministration to human diabetic patients to increase onset of action by targeting insulin deliv-ery to the skin. In the eye, hollow microneedles enable precise targeting of injection to thesuprachoroidal space and other intraocular tissues for minimally invasive delivery to treat mac-ular degeneration and other retinal diseases.

Dr. Prausnitz and colleagues also study novel mechanisms to deliver proteins, DNA and othermolecules into cells. Cavitation bubble activity generated by ultrasound and by laser-excitationof carbon nanoparticles breaks open a small section of the cell membrane and thereby enablesentry of molecules, which is useful for gene-based therapies and targeted drug delivery.

In addition to research activities, Dr. Prausnitz teaches an introductory course on engineeringcalculations, as well as two advanced courses on pharmaceuticals and technical communica-tion, both of which he developed. He also serves the broader scientific and business communi-ties as a frequent consultant, advisory board member and expert witness.

Dr. Prausnitz is a Regents’ Professor, the Love Family Professor in Chemical & BiomolecularEngineering, and the director of the Center for Drug Design, Development and Delivery (CD4).

Mark Prausnitz

3837

EducationBS 1966, Louisiana State UniversityMS 1968, Louisiana State UniversityPhD 1969, Louisiana State University

Research Interests Processes involving separation and/or purification are of great prac-tical importance and are at the core of the discipline of chemicalengineering. Dr. Rousseau has focused his research on these

processes and related phenomena. A large body of his work has been on crystallization, whichis one of the most important means by which separation or purification is conducted. He hasled studies of crystal nucleation and growth and the role these phenomena have in determin-ing crystal morphology, purity, and size distributions. Dr. Rousseau is particularly interestedin the application of crystallization technology to the recovery and purification of high-value-added chemicals, including biologically produced materials.

The use of crystallization in separation and purification processes is an important and valuedmethodology in numerous industries, including those manufacturing commodity and special-ty chemicals, pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs, and a variety of biologically synthesized products.Crystallizers may be operated in either a batch or continuous mode, and the crystalline prod-uct usually must have characteristics that are intrinsic to a specific application and/or thatfacilitate fluid-solid separation.

Recent research topics in the Rousseau group include:

• Crystallization Science and Technology• Solid-fluid Equilibrium• Nucleation and Growth Kinetics• Operating Protocols• Separation and Purification of Near-Isomorphic Amino Acids• Morphology, Hydrates, and Solvates• Crystallization of Proteins• Crystallization of Inorganic Species on Heat-Transfer Surfaces

Dr. Rousseau is the chair of the School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and the CecilJ. “Pete” Silas Chair.

Ronald Rousseau

EducationBS 1972, Syracuse UniversityPhD 1975, Syracuse University

Research Interests Dr. Reichmanis’ research interests include the chemistry, propertiesand applications of materials technologies for electronic and photon-ic applications, with particular focus on polymeric and nanostruc-tured materials for advanced technologies. Current research topics

in the Reichmanis group include:

Design, synthesis and characterization of organic semiconductorsAlthough significant progress has been made, organic semiconducting polymers typicallyhave low charge carrier mobility, low oxidation stability and a relatively large bandgap rela-tive to their inorganic counterparts. From a molecular perspective, intra- and inter-molecularπ-orbital overlap (or π – π stacking) determines the charge transport performance. We areengaged in studying the effects of molecular co-planarity, intra-molecular charge transportand electron-withdrawing substitution on the optical and electronic properties of candidatepolymers with the aim of facilitating their field-effect charge transport and photovoltaic per-formance.

Fundamental understanding of structure-property relations in organic semiconductor thinfilmsSubtle micro-/macro-structural changes in organic semiconductor thin film architecture domi-nates the electrical properties of the material. We are developing efficient processing tech-niques to manipulate and control the micro-/macro-structure of the thin films, and investigat-ing how the resultant structure impacts macroscopic charge transport within the material.Techniques such as absorption and vibrational spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, x-raydiffraction and electrical measurements of thin films have been employed to understand rela-tionships between molecular structure, thin film architecture, optical properties and macro-scopic charge transport in organic/polymer/hybrid semiconductor materials. Efforts to under-stand the impact of interfaces are also in progress.

Processing dependent morphology-performance relationships in organic photovoltaic cellsPhase separation and crystallization into desirable bulk heterojunction morphologies throughprocess optimization are effective ways to increase the power-conversion efficiency of anorganic photovoltaic cell. Process parameters such as solvent boiling point/volatility, solubilityparameters of both the active materials and deposition solvents, thermal and/or solvent vaporannealing have a profound impact on the morphology of the active layer, which influencessolar cell performance. We are engaged in investigating how process parameters affect blendmorphology and thus device performance. For instance, Hansen solubility parameters andSpano’s model are employed to systematically understand the effects of processing on themorphology and thus optoelectronic properties of the photovoltaic cells.

Elsa Reichmanis

4039

EducationBS 1973, University of LouisvilleMS 1974, University of LouisvillePhD 1981, University of Wisconsin

Research Interests Dr. Schork’s research interests involve the dynamics and control ofreacting systems, including the development of mathematical mod-els, on-line sensors, digital control schemes, and novel reactor con-

figurations for polymerization, and other reaction systems. Current research areas includeemulsion, solution, suspension, and dispersion polymerization, and control of nonlinear sys-tems. Specific topics of interest in emulsion polymerization include modeling, dynamics, andcontrol of batch and continuous systems, and the development of on-line sensors for dataacquisition and control in such systems. Interests in suspension, dispersion, and solution poly-merization’s include determination of component kinetic mechanisms, modeling, reactordesign, and closed-loop control of molecular weight.

F. Joseph Schork

EducationBS 1979, National Technical University, Athens, GreecePhD 1985, University of Minnesota

Research Interests Dr. Sambanis’s area of expertise is biochemical and biomedical engi-neering. His research emphasizes the application of chemical engi-neering principles toward developing enabling technologies for celland tissue-based therapies for metabolic diseases, primarily dia-

betes. Mathematical modeling is used to engineer optimally functional capsules and to simu-late biological processes at the subcellular, cellular, and tissue levels.

Current projects in the Sambanis group include:

• Engineering non-pancreatic cells for glucose-responsive secretion of recombinantinsulin with kinetics that closely approximate those of normal pancreatic islets.

• Developing methods for the low temperature preservation (cryopreservation) ofencapsulated cells and other tissue engineered systems.

• Developing approaches for the non-invasive monitoring of tissue engineeredsubstitutes in vitro and post-implantation in vivo.

• Engineering bioreactor systems for the functional maturation of islets and forthe characterization of the metabolic and secretory competency of free andencapsulated cells.

Athanassios Sambanis

4241

EducationDiplom 2003, Technical University of Munich, GermanyDSc 2006, Technical University of Munich, Germany

Research Interests Dr. Sievers’s research interests are in heterogeneous catalysis, reactordesign, applied spectroscopy, surface reactions, characterization andsynthesis of solid materials, as well pyrolysis and gasification of bio-

mass. Combining these interests, he is developing processes for the production of fuels andchemicals through fundamental and applied research.

In fundamental studies, a suite of analytical and spectroscopic techniques (e.g. IR, NMR) is usedto gain knowledge of structure-reactivity relationships of heterogeneous catalysts. Moreover,surface reactions are studied on a molecular level so that mechanisms and reaction pathways canbe derived. Information obtained from these studies provides the foundation for designing novelcatalysts.

Applied studies focus specific catalytic processes. For these projects, continuously operated flowreactor systems are designed. Different catalysts are tested for reactivity, selectivity, and stabilityand the influence of the operating conditions is investigated. Catalyst deactivation is studied indetail to develop suitable regeneration methods or to avoid deactivation entirely by improvedcatalyst design.

An important goal of Dr. Sievers’s research is to enable technology for utilization of alternativeresources in order to reduce the current dependence of oil. Among these, biomass is a particular-ly promising candidate because it is renewable and can be produced CO2-neutral.

Current research projects in the Sievers group include:

• Understanding and improving the stability of solid catalysts in hot liquid water• Reaction pathways of biomass-derived oxygenates on heterogeneous catalysts in an

aqueous environment• Aqueous phase reforming of biomass derived oxygenates• Hydrodeoxygenation of pyrolysis oils over novel catalysts• Co-gasification of biomass and coal• Catalytic upgrading of syngas

Carsten Sievers

EducationBSc 1992, The Austrialian National UniversityMSc 1993, University of ColoradoPhD 1995, University of Colorado

Research Interests Dr. Sholl’s research focuses on materials whose macroscopic dynam-ic and thermo-dynamic properties are strongly influenced by theiratomic-scale structure. Much of this research involves applying com-

putational techniques such as molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo simulations and quantumchemistry methods to materials of interest.

Current topics in the Sholl group include:

Molecular Transport Through Nanoporous MaterialsThe nanoscale pores that permeate zeolites and other molecular sieves make them ideal materi-als for many applications requiring shape-selective catalysis and separations. We are investigat-ing the macroscopic response of microporous membranes to multicomponent sorbate mixturesusing a combination of molecular simulations and nonequilibrium thermodynamics with anemphasis on computational screening of novel materials for membrane applications.

Adsorption of Chiral Molecules on Structured Metal SurfacesThe separation or synthesis of enantiomerically pure chemicals is a vital step in producingmany drugs and agrochemicals. We are studying the stereospecific adsorption properties ofchiral organic molecules adsorbed on bare stepped metal surfaces and on flat metal surfacesthat have been precovered with chiral templates. These systems provide an ideal environmentfor probing the fundamental mechanisms of enantioselective heterogeneous catalysis.

Hydrogen Purification and Storage Using Metal HydridesHydrogen purification and storage is an important issue in many existing and future large-scale applications. The dissolution of hydrogen into the interstitial sites of metals alreadyforms the basis of well developed purification and storage technologies. We are using rigorouscomputational models in collaboration with several experimental teams to develop high per-formance metal alloys for these applications.

Dr. Sholl is the Tennenbaum Family Chair and GRA Eminent Scholar for EnergySustainability.

David Sholl

4443

EducationBS 2001, University of Alabama, TuscaloosaPhD 2006, Rice University

Research Interests Dr. Taite’s research combines engineering and biological principlesfor the design, synthesis, and application of novel biofunctionalmaterials. The laboratory focus is geared toward the development ofsystems that bridge the interface of natural and synthetic materials

to elucidate interactions within cellular microenvironments that guide tissue formation.Understanding the structural and functional aspects of these relationships then allows for thedesign of cell-instructive biomaterials that respond to their local environments and stimulatespecific biological responses.

Research projects in the Taite lab span several fields, including localized drug delivery, diag-nostics, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with the goal of producing biocompati-ble materials having broad clinical relevance. Of interest are both the basic science and engi-neering aspects of biomaterials, including their chemical, biological, physical, and mechanicalproperties, the design and production characteristics of devices that incorporate these materi-als, and their clinical performance. As such, the laboratory is interdisciplinary, with interests inchemical and biological engineering, cell and molecular biology, and polymer chemistry.

Lakeshia Taite

EducationBS 2002, University of Notre DamePhD 2007, MIT

Research Interests The unifying theme of the Styczynski lab is the study of the dynam-ics and regulation of metabolism, with ultimate applications in meta-bolic engineering, biotechnology, biofuels, and drug development.Group members use high-throughput analytical techniques, coupled

with computational modeling and statistical analysis, to learn how cellular metabolism behavesand how it is regulated, and then to attempt to control those metabolic behaviors.

Metabolism, which is the process of cells taking in nutrients and turning them into energy andthe building blocks for more cells, is at the core of many biotechnological processes, as well asnumerous diseases. The Styczynski lab studies the network of reactions that constitutes metab-olism by measuring the concentrations of the biochemical intermediates in that network—sug-ars, amino acids, etc.—as direct, real-time readouts of cellular state. Using chromatographycoupled to mass spectrometry, the Styczynski lab tracks the concentrations and turnover ratesof metabolites, revealing details about the cell’s metabolic dynamics that may then be used formodeling and analysis of metabolism.

The Styczynski lab works on a variety of systems, including cancer cells, stem cells, and yeastcells. The ultimate aim is to use an increased understanding of metabolic dynamics in order toexert control over the cells, whether by keeping cancer cells from proliferating or by metabolicengineering of yeast to overproduce valuable chemical feedstocks. The group also has an inter-est in synthetic biology, including its use in the context of metabolic engineering.

Finally, the Styczynski lab uses extensive computational modeling and bioinformatics analysisin order to analyze and interpret data. The data generated in the lab is high-dimensional (manyvariables) and often in time-course format, so it is challenging to interpret. Group members usestandard analysis techniques (clustering, PCA), plus more detailed machine learning and mod-eling techniques (e.g., Bayesian networks) to explore and exploit data. The Styczynski lab alsohas significant interest in integrating multiple disparate data types —for example, metaboliteconcentrations and transcriptional levels —for a fuller, systems-level understanding of the sys-tem.

Mark Styczynski

4645

EducationBSE 2000, University of Alabama, Huntsville PhD 2005, Vanderbilt University

Research Interests Dr. Walton’s research focuses on various aspects of the design andsynthesis of functional porous materials for use in applicationsincluding adsorption separations, air purification, gas storage,chemical sensing, and catalysis. Her research group employs a com-

bination of molecular modeling techniques and experiments to develop a molecular-levelunderstanding of adsorption and diffusion properties of the materials. This approach allowsresearchers to fully characterize these novel systems and work toward enabling a more ration-al design of functional materials for adsorption applications. One of the major challenges indesigning or identifying novel porous materials for adsorption applications is developing anin-depth understanding of structure-property relations and host-guest interactions. This infor-mation is critical because if the adsorption mechanisms are understood—i.e., how, where, andwhy a molecule adsorbs in a certain material—then this knowlesge can be exploited to designstructures that interact more effectively with the molecule of interest.

Current projects in the Walton group include:

• Selective Adsorbents for Carbon Dioxide Capture • Novel Porous Structures for Enhanced Air Purification • Metal-Organic Frameworks as Site-Specific Catalysts • Modulation of Adsorption Properties of MOFs by Post-Synthetic Modification • Adsorption Separations for Biofuels Productions • Synthesis of New Organic Ligands for Novel Families of MOFs

Krista Walton

EducationBSc 1968, Imperial College, University of LondonPhD 1972, Imperial College, University of London

Research Interests Dr. Teja’s main areas of research are thermophysical properties ofmaterials and separation processes, particularly processes involvingsupercritical fluids. His research addresses problems related toenvironmental control, natural gas transmission, pharmaceutical

processing, polymer processing, and nanoparticle production. Specific current projectsinclude VOC emissions from aqueous solutions; polymer blend formation and doping insupercritical fluids; wax and amino acid crystallization; hydrothermal processes for nanopar-ticle synthesis; and thermal properties of nanofluids. The common theme in these projects isthe exploitation of solubility phenomena and solvent properties to facilitate separations andproduct development.

Current projects in the Teja group include:

• Continuous hydrothermal synthesis of inorganic nanoparticles (including batteryelectrode materials)

• Transport properties of nanofluids for thermal energy management• Manipulation of crystallization variables for the control of morphology and

nanoparticle size• Carbon dioxide processing of electrically conductive polymer nanocomposites• Henry’s constants and partitioning of VOCs• Dilute solution theory and the solubility of solids in supercritical fluids• Separation of chemotherapeutic compounds from natural products• Thermodynamic and transport properties of fluids and fluid mixtures

Dr. Teja is a Regents’ Professor and the Grassmann Foundation Professor of Chemical &Biomolecular Engineering.

Amyn Teja

47

EducationBSc 1973, University College, University of LondonPhD 1978, California Institute of Technology

Research Interests Dr. Yoganathan’s research deals with experimental and computationalfluid mechanics as it pertains to artificial heart valves, left and rightsides of the heart, and congenital heart diseases. His work involvesthe use of laser Doppler velocimetry, digital particle image velocime-

try, Doppler ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging to non-invasively study and quantifyblood flow patterns in the cardiovascular system.

Current research projects in the Yoganathan group include:

•Physiological, Pathological and Post Surgical Mechanics of the Mitral and Tricuspid Valves

•Effect of Hemodynamic Forces on the Mechanobiology of Aortic Valves•Hemodynamics of the Total Cavopulmonary Connection in Congenital

Hypoplastic Left Hearts•Fluid Mechanics of Mechanical and Polymeric Heart Valves•Development of a novel fluid management device for use in a pediatric

ECMO-CVVH setup

Dr. Yoganathan is the Associate Chair for Research in The Wallace H. Coulter School ofBiomedical Engineering, a Regents’ Professor, and the Wallace H. Coulter Distinguished FacultyChair in Biomedical Engineering. He also serves as director of the Center of InnovativeCardiovascular Technologies.

Ajit Yoganathan

EducationBS 1982, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)MS 1993, University of PennsylvaniaPhD 1996, Harvard University

Research Interests The Xia group is working on a number of research projects, includ-ing nanocrystal synthesis, catalysis, nanomedicine, and regenerativemedicine. For nanocrystal synthesis, the goal is to build a scientific

base for the large-scale production of nanocrystals with well-controlled compositions, struc-tures, shapes, and other properties sought for a variety of applications. For catalysis, the goalis to achieve a greater understanding and control of some of the industrially important reac-tions (e.g., CO oxidation and oxygen reduction) by taking advantage of the nanocrystals hisgroup has synthesized with a specific type of facet on the surface. For nanomedicine, the cur-rent activities include targeted delivery and controlled release, molecular imaging for earlycancer diagnosis, and effective treatment of cancer and other diseases. Specifically, his groupis developing gold nanocages as a multifunctional, platform material for an array of theranos-tic applications. His group is also systematically investigating how cells interact withnanocrystals with well-controlled sizes, shapes, morphologies, and surface properties. Forregenerative medicine, the goal is to advance this new field by bringing precision, control, andquantification into the design and fabrication of scaffolds for a better understanding of thescaffold-cell interactions in an effort to fully recover the function of a damaged tissue ororgan. Current activities include bio-inspired design of novel scaffolds with well-controlledproperties for manipulating stem cell differentiation, neurite outgrowth, tissue regeneration,and vascularization in a large tissue construct.

Dr. Xia holds joint appointments in The Wallace H. Coulter Department of BiomedicalEngineering and School of Chemistry and Biochemistry. He is the Brock Family Chair andGeorgia Research Alliance (GRA) Eminent Scholar in Nanomedicine.

Younan Xia

48