Linqing Li

Linqing Li serves as Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering & Bioengineering at the University of New Hampshire, where she conducts pioneering research at the intersection of biomaterials science and cellular mechanobiology. Her work focuses on designing advanced hydrogel systems to investigate cell-matrix interactions, vascularization processes, and disease mechanisms through engineered mechanical and structural properties.

Education:

• Ph.D., University of Delaware
• B.S., University of Science and Technology

Research Focus: Dr. Li's laboratory specializes in phase-separated hydrogel microstructures, matrix stiffness regulation, and biomimetic extracellular matrix systems. Her team develops innovative materials that replicate physiological mechanical cues to study angiogenesis, cancer metastasis, and cardiac fibrosis, with particular emphasis on how mechanical heterogeneity influences cellular decision-making in 3D microenvironments.

Publication Trends: Recent work (2022-2025) reveals a strategic progression toward liquid-liquid phase separation engineering for controlling hydrogel microarchitectures, with increasing focus on mechanical heterogeneity in tumor microenvironments and EGFR-mediated signaling in cardiac diseases. Her publications demonstrate consistent contributions to high-impact journals spanning biomaterials design, mechanotransduction, and disease modeling.

Scientific Recognition:

• NSF CAREER Award (2025) for groundbreaking research on liquid-liquid phase separation in microstructured hydrogels

Academic Leadership: Dr. Li mentors students through Bioengineering Design courses (BENG/CHBE 763-764), Senior Theses (BMCB 799H), and Doctoral Research (CHBE 999), while directing an active research group funded by the NSF CAREER grant. Her teaching spans biomaterials, thermodynamics, and innovation-focused project courses.

Research Infrastructure: The Li Laboratory operates within UNH's Chemical Engineering facilities, utilizing advanced biomaterials synthesis and characterization capabilities to develop next-generation tissue engineering platforms with clinical translation potential.