The ASRC Nanoscience Initiative studies how molecular composition, organization and nanoscale interactions can be controlled to create new materials with programmable properties and function. Drawing strongly on principles from biology, we develop molecular and polymeric materials, responsive and adaptive systems, and functional nanoscale interfaces, with applications ranging from sustainable materials and biomedicine to sensing and energy.
Increasingly, we integrate advanced characterization, computation, AI and automation to accelerate materials discovery. Through research, education, and partnerships with industry and government, we aim to position the ASRC and CUNY as a leading national hub for bio-inspired materials and enable a step change in New York City’s capacity for innovation, translation, and commercialization of bio-inspired technologies.