MAE Seminar: Physicochemical Design of Bioelectrical Interfaces

Details

MAE Seminar: Physicochemical Design of Bioelectrical Interfaces
Date: April 2, 2026
Time: 12:50 PM Location: MAE-A 303

Dr. Bozhi Tian
Professor
Department of Chemistry
The University of Chicago

Abstract
Bioelectronics research carries broad implications for medicine, engineering, and translational technologies. Over the past decade, the field has expanded rapidly through interdisciplinary contributions, opening new opportunities for innovation. Yet, fundamental studies that revisit the underlying science remain essential for sustained progress. As a physical chemist, I view this as an opportunity to reexamine well-established concepts in the physical sciences and adapt them to the design of bioelectronic materials, devices, and interfaces. Rather than reinventing the wheel, our strategy is to apply classical principles in new contexts, enabling fresh solutions to persistent challenges in bioelectronics.
In this seminar, I will highlight several examples from our work that illustrate how physical chemistry can inform bioengineering designs. Topics will include electrochemistry, photoelectrochemistry, catalysis, battery science, and phase transitions, with discussion of both published and unpublished systems from our laboratory. I will also outline emerging directions for the field and consider how physical chemists can contribute to advancing next-generation bioelectrical interfaces.

Biography
Dr. Bozhi Tian earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Harvard University and completed postdoctoral research in regenerative medicine at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. At the University of Chicago, his research focuses on developing new materials for bioelectronics, employing semiconductor- and electronics-based tools to investigate (sub-)cellular dynamics and soft-hard interface interactions, and the translational applications of diverse bioelectrical systems. Dr. Tian’s work has been recognized with several honors, including the Raymond and Beverly Sackler International Prize in the Physical Sciences, the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), recognition as an MIT Technology Review Innovator Under 35 (TR35) in 2012, and the 2023 Faculty Award for Excellence in Graduate Teaching and Mentoring from the University of Chicago.

Faculty Host: Dr. Jing Pan