Our mission: The mission of the CURE Lab is to create a paradigm shift in ultrasound research and structural health management. Our research is directed towards advancing multi-disciplinary knowledge at the crossroads between ultrasonics, dynamics/mechanics, polymer mechanochemistry, and bioengineering to design next-generation ultrasound-responsive structural components not just for civil infrastructure systems, but for human life. Specificlly, we develop a unique set of ultrasonic tools capable of not only quantifying/imaging the current state of damage evolution in solid materials, but also stimulating molecules, and biological cells in soft materials. We will be able to change the world with our ultrasonic techniques. We welcome applicants with a strong background in any of these subjects and techniques.

At the CURE Lab: We combine physics with chemistry to make new materials and functionalities for human-structure interactions. We use mathematics as a language and ultrasound as a tool!

Ultrasound-based NDE

We develop advanced ultrasound platforms, incorporating both linear and nonlinear ultrasound techniques (e.g., higher harmonic generation), to quantitatively evaluate material damage. By measuring various ultrasound parameters—including wave velocity (macro-scale), attenuation coefficient (meso-scale), and acoustic nonlinearity parameter (micro-scale)—we assess mechanical properties and detect inherent microcracks across various scales in a nondestructive fashion. This approach also enables us to discover and validate innovative solutions that address the limitations of conventional mechanical testing methods, such as the invasive or destructive nature of loading tests and the challenges associated with characterizing extremely thin specimens and additive materials.

Related papers: (1) Ultrasonics 2024; (2) Scientific Reports 2024; (3) CCR 2017; (4) NDT&E Int 2014.

Ultrasound Imaging for Civil Engineering

We develop our own ultrasound imaging techniques (e.g., quantitative ultrasound imaging, QUS, and null-subtraction imaging, NSI) capable of visualizing the internal structure of materials. By advancing beamforming algorithms based on multi-channel array sensor control and post-signal processing, we generate high-resolution, high-contrast images that capture even the smallest defects. Furthermore, we extract intrinsic material properties from the acquired signals and visualize these parameters, enabling us to reveal hidden microstructural changes that traditional methods fail to detect.

Related papers: (1) CCR 2024; (2) NTE 2025; (3) NTE 2025 (Accepted).

Ultrasound Imaging for Biomedical Engineering

Traditional medical ultrasound imaging techniques impose limitations, such as low resolution and interference from electrical noise, often resulting in qualitative diagnoses that rely heavily on a physician's experience. To address these challenges, we develop high-resolution and quantitative ultrasound imaging techniques. Our novel image reconstruction algorithms, based on nonlinear beamforming, dramatically enhance image contrast and resolution, providing clearer visualization of internal tissues that were previously difficult to discern. Additionally, by removing noise from the acquired signals and extracting quantitative material/acoustic parameters based on scattering theory, we improve both the accuracy and reliability of medical diagnoses.

Related papers: Two papers are now under review.

Ultrasound for Mechanochemistry and Polymer Networks

The role of ultrasound in chemistry and materials science has traditionally been centered around cavitation phenomena. However, we expand its potential by focusing on the spatiotemporal control of mechanical force or thermal energy, with an emphasis on isolating one from the other—an essential step toward unlocking new applications. For example, by developing mechanophores, —molecules that respond exclusively to mechanical forces with distinct color or light emission—we develop a novel class of structural sensors and introduce a new concept of ultrasound-based optogenetics. Additionally, by precisely controlling ultrasound propagation, we can modify the topology of polymer networks, enabling the synthesis of polymers with outstanding mechanical properties.

Related papers: (1) PNAS 2019; (2) JACS 2022; and three papers in preparation.

Mechanodynamic Therapy

When force-sensitive drugs are developed, focused ultrasound offers a noninvasive approach to deliver precise mechanical forces to targeted locations, enabling the localized activation of drugs and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This positions focused ultrasound as a promising alternative to traditional cancer treatment modalities, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. We have developed and validated a novel mechanophore-based sonosensitizer that generates ROS exclusively in response to ultrasound. The therapeutic efficacy of this approach has been demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo models. When combined with advanced ultrasound imaging techniques, such as quantitative ultrasound imaging (QUS) and null-subtraction imaging (NSI), this method enables real-time tracking of tumor sites and the health status of surrounding sound cells, simultaneously.