The Hickey group creates new materials using a combination of synthetic and self-assembly methods, and we investigate the interrelationships between chemistry and structure to uncover new avenues for tailoring materials properties. The group straddles the intersection between chemistry and physics, giving us the opportunity to fully explore soft material chemistry-structure-property interrelationships. Active areas of research include hybrid polymer/nanoparticle materials, hierarchically ordered hydrogels, and actuating materials triggered by hydration and heat.

The overall theme of the research is to create hierarchical, supramolecular structures. The work in the Hickey group primarily focuses on three areas of research: 1) reaction-induced phase transformations 2) responsive materials, and 3) non-equilibrium processing methods.