Wendy Gu

Wendy Gu is an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University, with a courtesy appointment in Materials Science and Engineering. Her research group focuses on the mechanical behavior of nanomaterials at the intersection of solid mechanics, materials science, and nano-chemistry. They design strong, lightweight structural materials and mechanically-actuated sensors using experimental tools like nanoindentation and electron microscopy.

Gu holds a BS from the University of California, Berkeley (2009), and a MS/PhD from the California Institute of Technology (2014). Her work spans nanoscale metals, ceramics, and nano-architected composites, with applications in extreme environments and energy storage systems. Notable projects include studying phase transitions in microparticles under confinement and developing hybrid TPMS-based architectured materials for enhanced stiffness.

Her research has led to innovations in metallic glass nanoparticles, hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms, and lithium intrusion prevention in solid electrolytes. Gu’s lab also explores 3D-printed micro-blades and upconverting microgauges for in vivo force sensing. Collaborations include data-driven design methods for architected materials using machine learning.