Overview

In the course of evolution, Nature has developed strategies that endow biological processes with exquisite selectivity and specificity, and produce superior materials and structures. This is wonderfully exemplified in the realm of inorganic materials formation by organisms, so-called "biomineralization".

Learning from and mastering Nature's concepts not only satisfies humankind's insatiable curiosity for understanding the world around us, but also promises to drive a paradigm shift in modern materials science and technology.

The Aizenberg lab's research is aimed at understanding some of the basic principles of biomineralization and the economy with which biology solves complex problems in the design of functional inorganic materials.

The goal is to use biological principles as guidance in developing new, bio-inspired synthetic routes and nanofabrication strategies that would lead to advanced materials and devices.

Dr. Aizenberg is one of the pioneers of this rapidly developing field of biomimetic inorganic materials synthesis. The lab pursues a broad range of research interests that include biomimetics, self-assembly, crystal engineering, surface chemistry, nanofabrication, biomaterials, biomechanics and biooptics.

Contact Joanna Aizenberg Amy Smith Berylson Professor of Materials Science Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Biology School of Engineering and Applied Sciences 29 Oxford St, Pierce 229 Cambridge, MA 02138, USA Phone: (617) 495-3558 | Fax: (617) 496-1457