Cayen Wang

My research is in mathematically understanding the mechanics of soft and active materials, specifically nematic liquid crystal polymers and elastomers. I am interested in using continuum mechanics to understand how and when the properties of liquid crystal elastomers give rise to complex dynamical behaviour across multiple scales. However, rather than studying a specific material or geometry in isolation, my goal is to develop a sufficiently general framework that can explain the qualitative mechanisms that lead to deformation, actuation, and self-organisation. This allows ideas to naturally extend beyond liquid crystal elastomers and be applied to related active materials, such as ferronematic elastomers, providing broader insight into the mechanics of adaptive material systems.

Who or what inspired you to pursue your research interests?

I've always been fascinated by how mathematics can explain the remarkable adaptability of biological systems. However, beyond the mathematics itself, I became intrigued by the idea of biomimicry: understanding nature well enough to recreate its remarkable capabilities in engineered systems. This led me to the study of artificial muscles and liquid crystal elastomers, where elegant mathematical theory meets exciting engineering challenges. I find it particularly rewarding when mathematical ideas can inform technologies with meaningful real-world impact, such as active materials for soft robotic systems, especially in healthcare settings. I'm incredibly grateful to the people who encouraged me to pursue research, particularly my undergraduate supervisor, who introduced me to active materials, and those who gave me the confidence to believe I could contribute to such a valuable field.