
OUR LAB FOCUSES ON...
Accelerating Materials Discovery and Innovation via
Predictive/Generative AI and Autonomous Robotic Platforms
01
Machine Intelligence Accelerated Discovery of Sustainable Biopolymer Nanocomposites with Programmable Properties
Our research integrates machine learning (ML)-enabled predictive and generative modeling with robotic automation to accelerate the discovery and optimization of sustainable biopolymer nanocomposites with programmable properties. We aim to develop biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics and antimicrobial food packaging films to address global challenges in plastic pollution, postharvest produce safety, and food quality preservation.

02
Designing Robust Machine Learning Frameworks for Limited Data Environments
Our research focuses on developing robust machine learning (ML) frameworks tailored for limited-data scenarios in materials science and chemical engineering. Due to the high cost and limited availability of experimental data, we aim to construct prediction models that extract maximum value from small datasets. By leveraging techniques such as active learning, transfer learning, data augmentation, and ensemble modeling, we improve model's prediction accuracy and confidence even in data-sparse environments. Our approach offers the potential to significantly accelerate formulation and processing optimization while reducing the time and expense associated with conventional trial-and-error experimentation.

03
Mechanically Driven Patterning of Functional Materials for Stretchable Electronics and Soft Robotics
Our research focuses on developing diverse patterning strategies to fabricate homogeneous and heterogeneous topographies on functional materials and their nanocomposite films. By harnessing multi-stage mechanical instabilities, we generate a comprehensive library of hierarchical, multiscale surface architectures across a broad range of material systems. These mechanically engineered structures are specifically designed to enable advanced applications in stretchable electronics, soft robotics, deformable batteries, and other emerging technologies that require high mechanical adaptability and strain-tolerant functional performance.

04
Nano-confined Synthesis of Catalytic Metal Nanocrystals
Our research investigates how spatial confinement and critical synthetic parameters govern the size, shape, and spatial distribution of catalytic metal nanocrystals. By elucidating detailed synthesis–structure–property relationships, we aim to build a comprehensive library of metal–2D material heterostructured catalysts with enhanced activity and selectivity for targeted chemical reactions.

Contact Us
Affiliations
Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
University of Maryland, College Park (UMD)
Maryland Robotics Center (MRC)
Artificial Intelligence Interdisciplinary Institute at Maryland (AIM)
Contact
Email: checp@umd.edu
Phone: +1-(669)302-5418
Addresses
Campus Office: Room 1223C, 4418 Stadium Drive, College Park, MD 20742-2111
Research Lab: Room 1216, J. M. Patterson Building, College Park, MD 20742-2111
Zoom Office: Link