The Ku research group, PCFL (Polymers & Complex Fluids Laboratory) at UNIST is interested in the design, synthesis, and engineering of advanced soft matter. The aim of the research is to understand the physical and chemical behavior of soft matter based on polymer science and colloid/interface engineering to apply them in real-world life. Recently, our group is focusing on the development of new polymer/colloid-based photo-metamaterials for microdisplays, sensors, and photonic cosmetics. See below for details:

• Polymer Chemistry and Physics: (1) Engineering of polymer architecture and self-assembly behavior, (2) Responsive 3D assembly of liquid crystals (3) Development of functional polymer nanocomposite materials for various applications (bioplastics, cosmetics, displays, batteries, bio-medical fields) 

• Colloid Mechanics: (1) 2D and 3D assembly and patterning of multiple colloids by robot dispenser and 3D printer, (2) Shape and movement control of complex colloids 

• Soft Robotics: (1) Design of smart colloid units with photo-metamaterials, liquid crystalline elastomer, and photonic polymers, (2) Manufacturing of colloid actuator driven by external stimuli