Christopher Hughes

Christopher Hughes is a Professor and Unit Head in the Physics Department at James Madison University (JMU), where he has been affiliated since 1997. He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (1993) and a BS in Physics from Davidson College (1984). His research focuses on microfabrication of microfluidic devices and polymer surface property modification, particularly investigating adhesion mechanisms in thin films and solvent-mediated surface treatments.

Key research contributions include studies on gold (Au) and platinum (Pt) thin film adhesion to poly(methyl methacrylate) substrates, as well as interdisciplinary work on neuronal degeneration mechanisms published in Current Biology. Hughes is affiliated with JMU's Madison Accelerator Lab and John C. Wells Planetarium, contributing to advanced materials research and instrumentation development.

His academic portfolio includes collaborations with departments across disciplines, leveraging polymer chemistry, materials science, and biophysical techniques. While no formal awards are listed, his work demonstrates sustained innovation in surface engineering and microfluidic device fabrication.