The Lara Estroff Research Group
Bio-Inspired Materials Synthesis

The Estroff group is interested in bio-inspired materials synthesis. Biological organisms synthesize composites of inorganic minerals within organic matrices as part of their skeletal systems (Figure 1). As materials scientists, we can learn strategies from biology to create new materials (organic and inorganic) with altered morphologies and materials properties. We can also design in vitro systems to answer questions from biology. The work in the Estroff group takes both of these approaches.

Figure 1. Examples of biomineralization (from left to right): Gorgonian (Mg-rich calcite); Corallina algae (Mg-rich calcite); Brittle star (Mg-rich calcite).

 

 

CCMR Microscopy Image Contest, Winter 2007: Congratulations to Ellen for winning FIRST PLACE for her SEM image! Please see more details from the link.

Soft Matter Poster Prize, Fall 2007: Congratulations to Ellen for winning the Soft Matter Poster Prize at the Materials Research Society fall meeting.

CCMR Microscopy Image Contest, Summer 2006: Congratulations to Hanying for winning BEST CAPTION for his SEM image! Please see more details from the link.

CCMR Microscopy Image Contest, Spring 2006: Congratulations to Hanying for winning FIRST PLACE for his SEM image and Ellen for winning BEST CAPTION for her SEM image! Please see more details from the link.

Estroff received the 2006 James D. Watson Investigator Program Awards (NYSTAR).

 

Jason's article from "Ask A Scientist": Under normal use candle wax can become a vapor

Jason's article from "Ask A Scientist": Variety of chemicals in hair relaxers untwist strands

Jason's article from "Ask A Scientist": Motor oil's low vapor pressure keeps paint wet

         
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Last Revised: 8/10/2007