Shengfeng Cheng

Shengfeng Cheng is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), serving as Director of the Center for Soft Matter and Biological Physics. He holds affiliations with the Macromolecules Innovation Institute and the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Holding a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University, his research focuses on theoretical and computational soft matter physics, particularly in polymer systems, nanoparticle assembly, and interfacial phenomena. His work employs molecular dynamics simulations and statistical mechanics to study self-assembly, evaporation dynamics, friction, and biophysical systems.

Research interests span synthetic and biological polymers, including studies on microtubules and actin filaments, ion-containing polymers, and nanocomposites. Sponsored by agencies such as the National Science Foundation and the American Chemical Society, his projects address challenges in materials design and nanomanufacturing. Cheng actively recruits graduate students for research in polymer physics, soft matter theory, and computational modeling.

Teaching responsibilities include courses on Thermal Physics, Polymer Physics, and Statistical Mechanics. His lab collaborates across disciplines to advance understanding of complex material behaviors and their applications in energy, health, and technology sectors.