RESEARCH GROUPS

Soft Matter Theory (SOFTMATTERTHEORY)

Theoretical and computational soft matter research on thermoresponsive polymers, magnetic dispersions, functionalized nanoparticles, biopolymers, hydrogels and self-assembled biomimetic systems.

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Computational soft matter for complex, adaptive and biomimetic materials

The Soft Matter Theory group combines theoretical approaches and simulation techniques to study materials formed by building blocks whose mutual interactions are comparable to thermal energy.

These materials are easily deformed, responsive and structurally versatile. The group investigates thermoresponsive polymers, magnetic dispersions, biofunctionalized nanoparticles, biopolymers, hydrogels, vesicles, liposomes, membranes and other self-assembled structures.

A central interest of the group is the interaction between biomolecules and materials, together with the design and understanding of biomimetic materials within the broader ICMAB advanced materials research ecosystem.

Research challenges

Soft matter systems connect molecular interactions, nanoscale organization and macroscopic behaviour. The group develops theory and simulation to understand, predict and design these complex materials.

Thermally responsive materials

Understanding soft materials whose structure and properties change under thermal, chemical or environmental stimuli.

Self-assembly and organization

Studying vesicles, liposomes, membranes and complex aggregates formed by spontaneous molecular organization.

Biointerfaces and biomolecules

Exploring the interaction between biomolecules, functionalized nanoparticles and materials surfaces.

Multiscale modelling

Connecting theoretical models and simulations across scales to explain soft matter behaviour and guide materials design.

Main research areas

The group works on theoretical and computational approaches for soft, responsive and biomimetic materials.

Thermoresponsive polymers

Theoretical and simulation studies of polymers that respond to temperature and environmental conditions.

Magnetic dispersions

Soft matter systems with magnetic components, collective behaviour and field-responsive organization.

Functionalized nanoparticles

Biofunctionalized nanoparticles and their interactions with soft materials, biomolecules and complex environments.

Biopolymers and hydrogels

Simulation and theory of soft biological and polymeric systems with high water content and responsive mechanical behaviour.

Self-assembled structures

Vesicles, liposomes, membranes and supramolecular assemblies as model systems for complex soft matter organization.

Biomimetic materials

Materials inspired by biological systems, with special attention to interfaces between biomolecules and functional materials.

Theory, simulation and scientific modelling

Soft Matter Theory develops and applies theoretical models and simulation strategies to understand materials with complex, deformable and adaptive behaviour.

The group’s approach supports fundamental insight into the physical principles of soft matter while helping to guide the design of biomimetic and functional materials.

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Theoretical modelling

Development of models that describe interactions, structure formation and soft matter behaviour.

Computer simulations

Simulation techniques to explore responsive materials, biomolecular interactions and self-assembled systems.

Statistical physics

Physical understanding of systems whose interactions are of the order of thermal energy.

Biomimetic design principles

Conceptual frameworks inspired by biological materials, membranes and molecular organization.

A theoretical platform for advanced materials discovery

Soft Matter Theory contributes computational and conceptual insight to ICMAB research on functional materials, biointerfaces, nanostructures and complex systems.

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Scientific & Technical Services

Infrastructure

Access advanced services supporting materials characterization and research workflows.

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People

Permanent scientific researchers associated with the Soft Matter Theory group.

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For detailed information about Soft Matter Theory research activity, current projects, publications and collaboration opportunities, visit the external group website or contact the group through the corresponding ICMAB channels.

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