Alexa Kuenstler

Alexa Kuenstler is an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois, affiliated with the College of Engineering and the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. She investigates responsive polymeric systems and additive manufacturing of soft materials, focusing on applications in energy, sustainability, and human health.

Education:

• Postdoctorate, University of Colorado Boulder (2020-2022)
• Ph.D. in Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst (2020)
• B.S. in Chemistry, University of Rochester (2015)

Her research operates at the intersection of materials chemistry, polymer physics, and additive manufacturing, aiming to control material properties and responses in time and space. This work addresses challenges in carbon dioxide separations, energy systems, and biomedical applications.

Scientific Awards:

• 2025 Teaching Award

She leads the Kuenstler Research Group, which emphasizes the design, synthesis, and deployment of functional soft materials.