Morgan Barnes

Morgan Barnes is a Lecturer in Soft Manufacturing at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London (UCL), and a member of the Manufacturing Futures Laboratory. She holds a PhD in Materials Science and NanoEngineering from Rice University (2021), an MS in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science from Duke University (2015), and a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Baylor University (2013).

• Education
  • PhD in Materials Science and NanoEngineering, Rice University (2021)
  • MS in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University (2015)
  • BS in Mechanical Engineering, Baylor University (2013)

Her research focuses on Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Mechanics, Advanced Manufacturing, and Smart Materials, particularly in developing responsive materials for soft robotics, biomedical devices, and sustainable manufacturing. Recent work includes optically responsive liquid crystal elastomers for programmable actuation, covalent organic framework (COF) aerogels for energy storage, and high-strength 2D polymers from nanocomposites.

Key trends in her publications (15 most recent) emphasize 4D printing, shape-memory polymers, and COF-based functional materials. Her work intersects chemistry, mechanics, and manufacturing, with applications aligned to Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health) and 12 (Responsible Consumption).

Scientific Awards

• Journeyman Fellow, Army Research Laboratory (2020)

Teaching Activities include leading the MECH0097 Materials Design for Manufacturing module and laboratory challenges in the MECH0099 Group Manufacturing Challenges course at UCL East's Future Manufacturing and Nanoscale Engineering MSc program.