Meet the Group

The Kalow Group works at the intersection of organic synthesis, polymer chemistry, and materials science. Our research focuses on 1) discovering small-molecule transformations to access organic materials and 2) controlling the properties of polymeric materials by exploiting molecular reactivity.

Energy in the form of light offers easily tunable activation of oligomers to promote the synthesis of conjugated polymers; furthermore, light offers spatiotemporal control at the macroscale to manipulate material’s properties and functions. Recent work in the group includes method development for photocontrolled polymerizations of π-conjugated polymers, photoswitchable internal catalysis in covalent adaptable networks, establishing a platform for accelerated discovery of triplet sensitizers, and photoswitchable hydrogels for cell matrices. We are driven by the understanding and implementation of reaction mechanisms to push the boundaries of traditional organic materials. 

Applications of this research include processable and recyclable materials, materials with mixed ionic electronic conductivity, 4D hydrogels for tissue engineering, and fundamental insights to the polymer physics of exchanging networks. Students will gain experience in organic synthesis, polymer chemistry, mechanistic analysis, and materials characterization and testing.

FUN FACT: We love grabbing lunch and treats together! Most lab members fill our kitchen with fun treats that they have made or found while exploring the area!