Suraj Shankar

Suraj Shankar is an Assistant Professor in the Physics department at the University of Michigan. His office is located in 2241 Homer A. Neal Lab at the Physics Randall Lab and Homer A. Neal Lab building at 450 Church Street, Ann Arbor, MI.

Dr. Shankar received his Ph.D. in Physics from Syracuse University.

Professor Shankar's research lies at the interface of physics and biology, with a focus on how collective phenomena emerge, can be controlled, and become functional in soft materials and living systems. His work spans both theoretical and experimental approaches across multiple subfields of physics.

• His research employs a combination of theoretical modeling, computational analysis, and tabletop experiments to uncover general principles from specific examples
• Current research topics include controlling active fluids that can flow spontaneously
• Understanding bacterial dynamics in the gut
• Investigating the role of feedback and the environment in organ morphogenesis
• Studying biophysical constraints in cellular/organismal physiology
• Designing bio-inspired metamaterials with unusual mechanical responses

Professor Shankar's research is largely curiosity-driven and involves strong interdisciplinary collaborations with other experimental and theoretical groups. He is deeply committed to advancing diversity, equity, and belonging in his research group by cultivating an inclusive environment that supports the well-being and success of all members.