Materials Science, Innovation & Technology
As society evolves, so too must the materials that support it. At Yale Engineering, our researchers are developing innovative materials with wide-ranging applications to address critical global challenges. From new drug delivery systems to novel superconducting materials, we are shaping the future of materials science.
In medicine, we are designing biological nanomaterials that show great promise, particularly in cancer treatment. We've developed drug-carrying nanoparticles administered directly into the cerebrospinal fluid, offering new hope for treating brain cancers.
We're breaking new ground in materials design with bulk metallic glasses, combining remarkable strength with plastic pliability. By shrinking samples to the nanoscale, we've discovered new forms with potential applications in medical implants, electronics, and beyond.
Our quantum materials research provides critical insights into superconductivity mechanisms, potentially leading to room-temperature superconductors that could revolutionize energy transmission and storage.
We're also pioneering sustainable materials, transforming common substances like wood into extraordinary forms. This includes creating transparent wood for energy-efficient buildings and "superwood"–as strong as steel but six times lighter–with applications in construction, automotive, and aerospace industries.
Addressing environmental challenges, we're developing biodegradable and recyclable luminescent polymers for electronics to reduce e-waste. Our nanomaterials research is also producing innovative solutions for removing harmful contaminants like PFAS from water sources.
From enhancing everyday materials to creating new substances with unprecedented properties, Yale Engineering's materials research is laying the foundation for next-generation technologies with real-world impact.