Sangwoo Lee

Dr. Sangwoo Lee is an experimental polymer scientist and engineer at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering since 2021. He also holds an adjunct position at Seoul National University. His research focuses on polymer thermodynamics, self-assembly physics, and practical applications like polymer recycling. Lee earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Seoul National University (2003), a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota (2011), and completed a postdoctoral fellowship there (2011–2013). His work has been recognized with awards including the 2015 ACS Petroleum Research Fund Doctoral New Investigator Grant and the 2014 Cozzarelli Prize from PNAS.

• Education:
  • B.S., Seoul National University (2003)
  • Ph.D., University of Minnesota (2011)
  • Postdoctoral Associate, University of Minnesota (2011–2013)

Lee's research spans fundamental polymer science and applied material engineering. Key interests include block copolymer self-assembly, phase behavior modulation, and sustainable polymer recycling. His lab explores novel morphologies like Frank-Kasper phases and develops methods for controlled polymer degradation. Recent work addresses challenges in nanoscale phase separation and material toughness enhancement through rubber-toughened networks.

Publications highlight advancements in understanding polytypism in block copolymers, superacid-mediated polystyrene degradation, and colloidal crystal formation. His studies bridge thermodynamic principles with practical material design, aiming to address global sustainability challenges through innovative polymer systems.

• Awards:
  • 2015 ACS Doctoral New Investigator Grant
  • 2014 PNAS Cozzarelli Prize
  • 2013 Quadrant Award Finalist
  • 2011 University of Minnesota Best Dissertation Award

Lee advises students in polymer science and collaborates globally on material innovation. His Lee Research Group focuses on translating fundamental discoveries into real-world solutions, with ongoing projects on polymer upcycling and next-generation membrane technologies.