معرفی
H.R. Vutukuri is a tenured Assistant Professor at the University of Twente, leading the Active Soft Matter Lab within the Faculty of Science and Technology (TNW). He is affiliated with the Bioengineering Technologies (TNW-BET) department and the Nanobiophysics (TNW-BET-NBP) research group, as well as the MESA+ Institute.
Dr. Vutukuri's research focuses on developing novel biomimetic models to explore the dynamics of systems far from equilibrium. His work bridges physics, biology, and engineering to deepen our understanding of active matter systems. Specifically, his lab investigates:
- Controlling materials by powering them from within, uncovering how order can emerge from disorder
- Lipid membrane mechanics, understanding how cell membranes respond to foreign bodies and highly localized forces
- The transport of artificial microswimmers in complex fluids, leveraging principles of soft matter science
His recent publications reveal a strong focus on active matter systems, particularly exploring the interactions between artificial microswimmers and lipid membranes. His work combines experimental approaches with theoretical modeling to understand non-equilibrium phenomena in soft matter systems. A recurring theme is the development of light-responsive systems that can switch between different states, allowing for precise control over material properties and behaviors, with significant implications for both fundamental science and potential applications in biomimetic materials.
Dr. Vutukuri has received significant recognition for his research, including:
- ERC Consolidator Grant 2024 (2 M€) from ERC Research
- NWO Open Competition Domain Science – M1 grant (March 2023)
- NWO Open Competition Domain Science – XS grant (December 2023)
As the leader of the Active Soft Matter Lab, Dr. Vutukuri directs research that combines experimental physics with biological applications. His lab develops artificial microswimmers and active lipid vesicles to create minimal models for studying complex biological systems. The lab's work has implications for understanding cellular processes and developing new materials with life-like functionalities. With the recent ERC Consolidator Grant, the lab is expanding its research into synthetic active materials with life-like functionalities, with plans to open new PhD and Postdoc positions.
