Weinan Xu

Weinan Xu is an Assistant Professor at the School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering within the University of Akron's College of Engineering and Polymer Science. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology (2015) and completed postdoctoral research (2016-2019) at Johns Hopkins University.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology (2015)
  • B.E. in Polymer Materials and Engineering, Donghua University (2011)

His research focuses on creating stimuli-responsive functional polymers, 2D layered materials, and unconventional 3D fabrication technologies for biosensing, bioelectronics, and energy storage applications. The interdisciplinary projects bridge polymer science, molecular assembly, and 3D manufacturing.

Recent publications highlight advancements in 2D material integration, self-folding graphene, and responsive microcapsules. Key trends emphasize adaptive nanocomposites, light-responsive origami, and thermoresponsive biosensing systems.

The research group develops hybrid materials combining active polymers with 2D structures, enabling novel applications in soft robotics and energy conversion. The work is supported by collaborations in advanced micro/nanofabrication and interdisciplinary material design.