(3hr) Process-Driven Molecular Organization for Advanced Functionality

Process-Driven Molecular Organization for Advanced Functionality

Research Interests

My research interest focuses on understanding the molecular dynamics and behavior of polymers, and strategically tuning them for functional applications. My central hypothesis is that controlled processing conditions can impart sophisticated functionality to commodity off-the-shelf polymeric materials. This can be done by optimizing their molecular organization. My approach enables us to enhance commodity polymers, streamlining scalability and manufacturing. Systematic investigation of process-property relationships will generate fundamental insights into polymer physics while developing practical, high-performance materials.

Research Experience

My postdoctoral research has focused on integrating functional components into polymer nanofibers for advanced sensing and capture applications. I developed sensing platforms that can be programmed to detect virtually any coded threat with enhanced sensitivity and extended operational lifetimes by incorporating cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) systems and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) into solution blow-spun nanofibers. This work has yielded two provisional patents and I have secured over $700,000 in external funding. Through systematic manipulation of processing parameters, I have established key relationships between spinning conditions and the resulting fiber properties. This includes crystallinity, hydrophobicity, and piezoelectric performance.

My graduate research determined how cation radius affects mobility and affinity under physiologically relevant conditions and investigated ion transport phenomena in polyacrylate hydrogel systems. My comprehensive approach established core principles for creating synthetic tissues with biomimetic movement capabilities. This was achieved by tuning polyelectrolyte hydrogels and targeted delivery systems by functionalizing hydrogels. This work enhanced my fundamental understanding of polymer structure-property relationships while expanding into biomedical applications.

Throughout my research journey, I have maintained a consistent focus on structure-property relationships in polymeric materials. This progression reflects my commitment to understanding fundamental polymer physics and applying these principles to create functional materials. I have developed expertise in hydrogel synthesis and characterization, nanofiber fabrication, and structure-property optimization of polymer systems.

Successful Proposals

Solution Blow Spinning: Increasing Capabilities: $30,000, Quick Empowerment leads to Successful Tomorrows, US Army DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center, 2024; Synthetic Bioprinted Ocular and Dermal Models for Toxicological Characterization: $708,257 over 3 years, Co-PI, US Army DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center, 2024-2026; Biosensing incorporation into personal protective equipment: $50,000, Co-PI, US Army DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center, 2023; NIST Center for Neutron Research (NCNR), NG-7 SANS, 2019; Sigma Xi Grant in Aid: $882, 2018

Selected Publications

• In Preparation: Kozawa, S. K., Mundy, L., Peterson, G. Understanding the effects of processing on fiber/MOF composites.
• In Preparation: Kozawa, S. K., Biondo, J., Lee, M. S., Lee, J. A. Stabilizing cell-free protein systems materials using solution blow spun polymer nanofiber mats.
• Van de Voorde, K. M., Kozawa, S. K., Mack, J., Thompson, C. B. Influence of Crosslinker Functionality and Photoinitiator Loading on Network Connectivity and Actuation in 3D Printed Model Thermosets. ACS Appl. Polym. Mater. 2024, 6, 3918-3929. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsapm.3c03217
• Wnek, G.E., Costa, A.C.S., Kozawa, S.K. Bio-Mimicking, Electrical Excitability Phenomena Associated with Synthetic Macromolecular Systems: A Brief Review with Connections to the Cytoskeleton. Front. Mol. Neurosci. 2022, 15, https://doi.org/10.3389/fnmol.2022.830892
• Wilcox, K., Kozawa, S.K., Morozova, S. Fundamentals and Mechanics of Polyelectrolyte Gels: thermodynamics, swelling, scattering and elasticity. Chem. Phys. Rev. 2021, 2, 041309. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0048152
• Kozawa, S.K., Lord, A., Walker, A., Wnek, G;. Micro-Capillary Reactors via Co-Axial Electrospinning: Fabrication of Small Poly(acrylic acid) Gel Beads and Thin Threads of Biological Cell Dimensions. Gels. 2021,7,37. https://doi.org/10.3390/gels7020037

Teaching Interest

In the classroom, I engage students by relating complex scientific concepts to everyday experiences—such as visualizing Rouse time as noodles—to strengthen connections between theory and practice. I incorporate interactive platforms like team-based learning groups for real-time concept assessment and foster an inclusive learning environment with open communication channels.

My passion for teaching lies in the laboratory, where students apply their knowledge to new problem sets and develop their understanding of the scientific method. I have mentored 22 undergraduate and master's students, many of whom have advanced to PhD programs, medical and pharmacy schools, and successful careers in industry. This mentorship focuses on individualized development through structured guidance and regular one-on-one support; helping students identify and pursue their ideal academic and career paths.

I look forward to leveraging my research expertise to develop electives in polymer physics, biomaterials, and drug delivery. I will focus on material properties and transport phenomena. I hope to establish an interdisciplinary research group that encompasses chemical engineering, polymers, biology, chemistry, and physics, I aim to create an educational environment that fosters analytical competency and creative problem-solving skills. This will prepare students for complex challenges in their future careers.