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This highlight demonstrates the combination of colloidal nanocrystals with uniquely developed ligands for the use of gelation assembly. Through this combined experimental, computational and theoretical work provided a platform for controlling and designing the properties of reversible colloidal assemblies.

The Illinois MRSEC implemented its middle school outreach program “Musical Magnetism” for the third year starting in Feb. 2021, in a six-week, virtual format. The program engages middle school students in materials science demos as they practice creative expression with a science theme. The program reached 50 7th and 8th graders at Franklin STEAM Academy, a school with majority URM students.

Hosted by Prof. Rolando Valdés Aguilar and graduate student Brandi Wooten, CEM Podcasts were started in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic in an effort to inform and bring the MRSEC community together.

Understanding how atoms move is fundamental to making and using materials. Atoms on the surface of some glasses move at nearly the same rate as atoms on the inside. But for other glasses, surfaces atoms move a million times faster.

The UD MRSEC team is developing and employing a suite of novel experimental characterization techniques that provide important insights into hybrid materials, in which unique properties arise due to interactions between material constituents.

Burdick and Shenoy have designed synthetic actively remodeling networks using electrospun fibers containing reactive groups that form covalent crosslinks at sites where fibers are brought together by localized strains. This approach uses the fibers of  hyaluronic acid modified with either hydrazides (red) or aldehydes (green).

The Harvard MRSEC is partnering with Navajo Technical University to develop robust pathways to scientific careers for Native American students. The partnership strives to bring to the forefront scientific traditions and innovations of indigenous peoples.

In response to a campus-wide initiative to prevent a surge in COVID19 infections, the Center piloted a special (in-person) RIMSE Spring Break Research Experience to encourage undergraduate students to remain on campus during the 2021 Spring Break.

Liquefied gas electrolytes enable low temperature operation due to their low freezing point. However, their high vapor pressure poses a safety concern. Can confinement of these gas electrolytes in a nanoscale material enhance electrochemical performance while minimizing the hazards?

Researchers have developed programmable DNA origami building blocks that self-assemble into icosahedral shells, with programmable sizes. The shells can be functionalized with antibodies, enabling them to engulf and neutralize natural viruses.