Research

We combine research on the physics and chemistry at small scales with micro- and nano-systems engineering to develop new active systems that move, sense and learn. Part of our group pursues biomedical applications in collaboration with our lab at the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research. We are working on ultrasound for neuromodulation and sonogenetics, as well as transcranial applications. Progress in these endeavors promises efficient ways to deliver therapeutics across biological barriers, such as the blood-brain-barrier, and ways to control neuronal processes deep inside the brain, as well as direct the growth of cellular structures. Our group also has a long-standing interest in nanorobotic systems and their use to probe the microstructure of tissue and as nano-vehicles to deliver genes. We are also involved in a number of start-up activities.