Rein V. Ulijn

Rein V. Ulijn is the Einstein Professor of Chemistry at Hunter College and Founding Director of the Nanoscience Initiative at the Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC), CUNY. His research focuses on bio-inspired nanotechnology, leveraging molecular building blocks to design functional materials for energy, biomedicine, and sustainable applications. He holds leadership roles in Sensor CAT and NSF NRT programs.

Education:

• PhD in Physical Chemistry (2001), University of Strathclyde
• MSc in Biotechnology (1998), University of Wageningen

Research Interests: Developing adaptive peptide systems, self-assembling materials, and sustainable nanomaterials. His work emphasizes bio-inspired design, with applications in drug delivery, energy harvesting, and environmental technologies. Recent trends in his publications highlight adaptive systems, enzyme-responsive materials, and peptide-based actuators.

Awards:

• Vannevar Bush Faculty Fellowship (2021)
• Royal Society Wolfson Merit Award (2014)
• Fellow of Royal Society of Edinburgh (2014)

Advising & Labs: Supervises a multidisciplinary team including PhD candidates and postdocs. Leads the Ulijn Lab at ASRC, collaborating with institutions globally. Active in training programs like NSF NRT Nanoscience Connected to Life.

Labs/Teams: Directs Sensor CAT (Center for Advanced Technology) and co-leads projects in the CUNY Nanoscience Initiative. Collaborates with experts in chemistry, biology, and engineering.