IRGs

IRG 1 studies the effects of physics on the micron and sub-micron scale upon flows, and effects of flows upon microscale phenomena. Several projects approach this problem from complementary vantage points. One seeks to elucidate and control the singularities emerging in situations such as fluid ejection, droplet break-up or crumpling. The second studies flow structures occurring in microfluidic channels or at interfaces.

IRG 2 designs and implements strategies for Hierarchically Assembled Molecular Materials, composed of molecular assemblies on surfaces that express novel function. Three synergistic themes develop functional organic and inorganic elements as well as general routes for their proximal assembly, leading to the creation of novel hierarchical materials with tailored chemical activity or, for more physical objectives, enhanced electronic, optical, or magnetic response. A new direction explores the self-assembly and electronic properties of self-assembled nanocrystal superlattices.

IRG3, Jamming and Slow Relaxation in Materials Far From Equilibrium, is developing a novel, unifying framework to understand the complex behavior of large classes of materials, from spin systems to supercooled liquids to granular matter, that become stuck in states far from equilibrium and defy description by conventional statistical mechanics. This interdisciplinary approach is based on the concept of “jamming” co-developed at Chicago. A first thrust investigates phenomena in which systems jam via self-organized processes. A second thrust extends the jamming phase diagram to include systems with externally imposed disorder.

This IRG develops new routes for designing and controlling the interface between biological entities and man-made materials. A first theme in this IRG develops biochips for quantitative characterization of biological activities. A second theme focuses on polyvalency to develop new approaches and design rules for engineering materials used in biological applications. A third theme seeks to develop and exploit the assembly processes inherent to biology for the fabrication of materials with unique properties. This paradigm is especially relevant to materials with ordered structure at the 10-50 nm length scale.