Gabriel Burks

Research Interests

Drawing inspiration from nature's complex structural models, Professor Burks' Soft Matter Innovation Lab + Education (SMIL+E) uses in-situ transmission electron microscopy, and multimodal characterization techniques to: 1) uncover mechanisms of classical polymer crystallization phenomena, 2) enable new modes for materials processing and development, and 3) better understand the assembly and structural variance of proteins associated with degenerative brain disease. Their interdisciplinary research program not only advances understanding of fundamental materials science but also contributes to STEM Education outcomes and paves the way for innovative applications across various industries, including energy, healthcare, and human performance.