Research

We are passionate about precision design and manufacturing of complex mechanical systems and devices. Our approach to research is basic science and applied physics-oriented. Our primary research expertise is in (1) tribology and surface engineering and (2) processing and manufacturing of engineered materials. Specifically, our tribology research focuses on (elasto)hydrodynamic lubrication problems, ultra-thin coatings, and surface topography, with applications in orthopedic implants and additive manufacturing. Our materials manufacturing research focuses on using ultrasound waves to organize micro- and nanoscale particles dispersed in a matrix material into user-specified positions, to fabricate engineered materials. We integrate this ultrasound directed self-assembly technique with a variety of standard manufacturing methods, such as mold casting, but also different additive manufacturing technologies.

Our research finds application in many engineering applications including:

	Design and manufacturing of engineered bearing surfaces for prosthetic implants
	Design of medical devices and surgical instruments
	Design of ultra-thin coatings and complex (micro- and nanoscale) lubrication systems
	External-field directed self-assembly of micro- and nanostructures
	Manufacturing and processing of engineered polymer nanocomposite materials, metamaterials
	Additive manufacturing surface topography

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