The Sinha group employs sequence-defined polymers (SDP) that are made using a combination of biomacromolecules like peptides, peptoids, nucleic acids and their conjugates with polymers to guide assembly of nanostructured and functional biomaterials and nanocomposites.
Using high-throughput synthesis, characterization and processing techniques, we screen and identify sequence-driven and design-driven structure-property-processing relationships that can alleviate material design limitations in healthcare, energy and sustainability fields.
Currently, we are exploring three research areas within the group:
- SDP guided nanoparticle assembly for electronics
- SDP-based enzyme encapsulation and assembly for catalysis
- SDP-driven protein stabilization for therapeutics
We have expertise in synthesis techniques such as solid-phase synthesis, ring-opening polymerization and click chemistry. We also extensively employ light, X-rays and neutron scattering, optical and electron microscopy as well as rheology and other mechanical testing techniques for characterizing our materials.
Interested in learning more? Email the PI at sinha@psu.edu and ask your questions!