We study the statistical mechanics of "soft condensed matter:" colloids, vesicles, emulsions, nanoparticle suspensions and other squishy things. Our experiments probe the relationships between inter-particle forces, structure, and dynamics of many-bodied systems -- relationships that are central to research in condensed-matter physics.

We use this fundamental understanding to develop materials at the nanometer scale. Self-assembled materials have truly unique mechanical, optical and electronic properties with applications in nanotechnology and biomedical engineering.

Click on images for details. Publications can be downloaded.

We apply optical imaging in 2D and 3D; laser tweezers and micromanipulation; a station for vis-IR optical spectroscopy of microscopic samples; and a lab for synthesis of polymeric, metallic, semiconducting and insulating particles, droplets, and membranes. A fast camera system is on the way (w/ Menon, Candela, and Easwar).

Our group meetings (w/ Levine, Menon) are Fridays at 1:30 in Has409.

Assembly and Interactions at liquid interfaces:
Nanoparticle membranes formed on droplets;
Self-assembled capsules for delivery (colloidosomes);
Electrostatic & capillary forces at interfaces;
Spherical crystals -- the Thomson problem.

Random solids - colloidal and protein gels:
Thermal motions, forces, topology, and elasticity;
Drying and cracking of gels.

Colloids and Optics:
Photonic crystals and the photonic band gap;
Effect of disorder on optical properties;
Fabrication and spectroscopy.

Colloids and Electronics:
Metallic colloidal spheres;
Formation of wires in insulating fluids;
Transport of charge in suspensions.

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Former Projects:

Crystallization of colloidal particles:

Entropic forces near rigid
and flexible surfaces:

Doped semiconductor nanoparticles: